Springtime Allergy Relief

Carmi Remedy’s Rx Pharmacy- April Newsletter

It’s spring in the Okanagan! Trees are budding, grass is growing, and for one in six Canadians, it’s allergy time. Depending on what a person is allergic to, allergy season can start in the early spring and last through to autumn.

When you are allergic to an outdoor allergen, such as tree or grass pollen, your immune system releases a chemical inside your body called histamine. Histamine triggers allergy symptoms including sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itchy throat and headaches.

What you can do for Allergy Relief:

Antihistamines:

Antihistamines relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes and itchy nose and throat. Penticton’s Carmi Remedy’s Rx carries a variety of antihistamines that are available in tablets, liquids and eye drops. Different formulas exist, including drowsy and non-drowsy.

Decongestants:

These help clear your stuffy nose and improve breathing. However, if drops or sprays are used for too long, your blocked nose may get worse again.

Vitamin therapy:

Penticton’s Carmi Remedy’s Rx Pharmacy carries a full line of vitamins that can help to reduce inflammation and support your immune system. Commonly used vitamins for these purposes include Vitamin C with bioflavenoids, Selenium, Zinc, Omega-3, fish oils or flaxseed oils.

Immunotherapy:

Sometimes physicians will prescribe injections of gradual doses of the pollen you’re allergic to. This controlled exposure is meant to help build your immune system response.

Environmental:

To reduce your symptoms, it’s a good idea to stay indoors on dry, windy days and use air conditioning in your house and car. If you’re allergic to indoor allergens such as dust mites, encase mattresses, box springs and pillows in allergy-proof covers and vacuum carpets weekly.

Do you have seasonal allergies and also take medications?

Your Penticton Carmi Remedy’s Rx Pharmacist would be happy to help you find products suitable for you, especially if you take medications or have medical conditions to take into consideration.