Seasonal Allergies: Expert Advice on the Best Treatment
As the seasons change, so do our bodies' reactions to the world around us, leading many to seek relief from the discomfort of seasonal allergies. Alec Ginsberg, fourth-generation pharmacist at C.O. Bigelow, spoke to PIX11 about navigating seasonal allergies, medication shortages, and the essentials that should be in your medicine cabinet.
Beyond allergy medicine, you should be stocking up on essentials for any emergency situations. Items such as EpiPens for severe anaphylactic reactions and Benadryl for acute allergic reactions are must-haves. Additionally, keeping Narcan spray on hand can be a lifesaver in the event of a fentanyl overdose, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for any emergency.
Understanding Allergy Symptoms and Treatments
Seasonal allergies, often triggered by pollen, dust, and other airborne particles, can cause a range of symptoms, from sneezing and itching to more severe reactions. Oral antihistamines are often the first line of defense against allergies. They work by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Some of the most popular oral antihistamines include:- Claritin (Loratadine)
- Zyrtec (Cetirizine)
- Xyzal (Levocetirizine)
The Importance of Pharmacist Expertise
There is a wealth of knowledge behind the counter at your local pharmacy. Pharmacists are not only experts in medication but also play a crucial role in ensuring patient safety. They double-check prescriptions for accuracy, ensure medications are appropriate for each patient, and verify that there are no dangerous drug interactions. Medication shortages can be a significant concern, as we’ve seen with recent shortages of Ozempic and ADHD stimulants. Establishing a relationship with a local independent pharmacy can provide personalized care and timely updates on medication availability, ensuring you're never caught off guard during allergy season.Preparing for Allergy Season
Be proactive. It's important to start allergy medications early in the season. This can help mitigate the severity of allergy symptoms before they become unbearable. Consulting with a pharmacist can provide personalized advice on when and how to start taking allergy medications based on your needs and the local allergy forecast. Beyond allergy medicine, you should be stocking up on essentials for any emergency situations. Items such as EpiPens for severe anaphylactic reactions and Benadryl for acute allergic reactions are must-haves. Additionally, keeping Narcan spray on hand can be a lifesaver in the event of a fentanyl overdose, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for any emergency.