You’re not imagining it; spring is starting earlier this year and with it comes pollen.
As you are looking for solutions to the sneezing, itchy and watery eyes or nasal congestion, there are over-the-counter (OTC) medications you can take to better control the symptoms of allergies, and other things you can do to lessen the impact.
“Seasonal allergies are very common and can significantly affect daily life,” said Leslie Baker, Pharm.D., BCGP, director of geriatric pharmacy services at the . “I generally recommend starting routine allergy medications two weeks before your symptoms usually begin. This year has been a challenge for a lot of people because trees and flowers are blooming earlier than usual.”
First and foremost, it is important to know your triggers. What allergens or pollen do you react to negatively? Knowing what may be in the air can alter your behavior. Sagebrush, Nevada’s state flower, is a common hay fever contributor for many. Check for an allergy forecast.
Before reaching for allergy medicine, you can make small habit changes. Leave your windows in your car and home closed or stay indoors when it is windy. Wear a filtered mask when outdoors, purchase an air purifier and wash bedding regularly. These small changes can help minimize exposure to common allergens.
“These small habits can help limit exposure to allergens, which can absolutely help with symptom control,” said Baker. “Other things to try are shower before bed to wash off allergens, vacuum and dust routinely, limit outdoor activities if pollen counts are high.”
If you decide medication is necessary, take it before it is needed to prevent severe symptoms rather than treating them later. Safe and effective OTC medications include:
- Steroid nasal sprays: Popular brands include Flonase, Nasonex, Nasacort and Rhinocort. These sprays are acceptable for regular, daily use.
- Oral antihistamines: Popular brands like Allegra, Claritin or Zyrtec are safe for daily, long-term use and only cause minimal drowsiness.
- Antihistamine eye drops: If itchy eyes are the common symptom, antihistamine eye drops can help, including Zaditor, Alaway and Pataday. These provide fast relief, but they should not be used long-term without consulting a doctor. Prolonged use can lead to rebound effects, making irritation and redness worse.
- Saline nasal sprays: Moisturizing your nasal passages can flush out allergens like pollen, dust and pet dander. These can be picked up at any pharmacy and are safe for all day use.
If you are congested and decide to reach for a decongestant nasal spray like Afrin, do not exceed three days of use. Maintaining use after the third day can lead to rebound congestion where nasal passages become inflamed and dependent on the spray. Follow the instructions, and if congestion returns, you can begin using it again 10 or more days later.
For older adults, especially, avoid Benadryl and products containing chlorpheniramine. These OTC allergy medications cause drowsiness. As people age, that issue can be compounded, leading to “a hangover effect,” cognitive impairment and even falls. Additionally, it can contribute to constipation, difficulty emptying your bladder and dry mouth. Instead, choose safer options listed above.
If you have high blood pressure, it is best to avoid decongestants or products that are labeled “D” as they can raise blood pressure and heart rate. Check packaging carefully as antihistamines can be hidden in OTC sleep aids and multi-symptom cold medicine.
“When in doubt, speak to a pharmacist,” said Baker.
