Pharmacist shares advice on managing spring allergies
Understanding the difference between a common cold and seasonal reactions can help residents treat their symptoms effectively.
As spring settles in, local pharmacists are already seeing an increase in complaints linked to the change in season.
Local pharmacist Alexia Radulovi told the Springs Advertiser that the most common complaints currently include runny noses, sneezing, nasal congestion and itchy or watery eyes.
“We are also seeing some people presenting with skin rashes or increased skin sensitivity, which can flare up during seasonal changes,” she said.
Radulovi said grass, tree and weed pollens become more prevalent during spring, while the towns dry and often windy conditions can keep pollen, dust and other particles circulating in the air.
Dust mites and mould can also contribute to symptoms, particularly among people who are already prone to allergies.
Identifying allergy symptoms
According to Radulovi , one of the clearest ways to distinguish allergies from a cold or flu is the presence of itching.
“Allergies typically cause a clear runny nose, repeated sneezing, itchy or watery eyes and sometimes an itchy throat. People generally do not feel ‘sick’ in the same way they do with an infection,” she said.
A cold can cause a sore throat, congestion and coughing, while the flu is more likely to develop suddenly and cause fever, body aches, significant tiredness and a general feeling of being unwell.
Itchy eyes and an itchy nose are much more suggestive of allergies. Radulovi added that while anyone can experience seasonal allergies, young children, people with asthma or eczema and older patients require particular care.
“People who already have asthma can find that seasonal allergens trigger coughing, wheezing or worsening asthma symptoms,” she said.
Environmental conditions can also worsen allergy symptoms. Radulovi highlighted that dry and windy weather can move pollen and dust through the air, while activities such as cutting grass and gardening can increase exposure. Keeping windows open can also allow pollen into homes and cars.
Treatment and pharmacy advice
For those experiencing symptoms, Radulovi said there are several over-the-counter treatment options, depending on the symptoms.
She explained that non-drowsy antihistamines can help with sneezing, itching and runny noses, while nasal sprays can be useful where congestion and inflammation are the main problems. Allergy eye drops can also provide relief for itchy or watery eyes.
However, she cautioned residents against simply choosing medication without considering their specific symptoms.
“A pharmacist can help patients select an appropriate option and check whether it is suitable alongside their other medication,” she said.
Radulovi also warned against increasing medication doses when symptoms are not improving.
“Taking extra doses is not necessarily more effective and can cause side effects. If the recommended treatment isn’t controlling your symptoms, speak to your pharmacist or doctor rather than increasing the dose yourself,” she said.
Preventive measures at home
Residents who experience seasonal allergies every year are encouraged to start managing their symptoms before they become severe.
Radulovi said keeping windows closed when pollen levels are high, changing clothes after spending time outdoors, showering and washing hair before bed after pollen exposure and regularly washing bedding can help.
She also advised residents to avoid drying bedding and clothing outside on particularly high pollen days, as pollen can settle on fabrics.
Pollen levels vary depending on the plant, weather and local conditions. Radulovi shared that dry and windy conditions tend to increase airborne pollen, while rain can temporarily clear pollen from the air.
Residents with significant allergies can monitor local pollen forecasts and avoid prolonged outdoor activities when pollen levels are particularly high.
When to seek medical help
Those whose symptoms persist, are severe, repeatedly return, affect sleep or daily activities, or fail to respond to appropriate pharmacy treatment should seek medical advice.
Medical attention is also recommended where symptoms include fever, significant pain, a persistent cough, recurrent sinus problems or worsening asthma.
Radulovi said difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness, swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, difficulty swallowing, faintness or a rapidly progressing widespread reaction require urgent medical attention.
She also urged residents not to assume that every runny nose requires antibiotics, adding that allergies are caused by the body’s response to allergens such as pollen, and antibiotics do not treat them.
Radulovi encouraged locals who struggle with allergies every spring to speak to their pharmacist early and develop a simple management plan.
“Do not wait until you are completely miserable before doing something about it. We are already seeing the seasonal change reflected in the number of people coming in with runny noses, sneezing and occasional allergy-related skin complaints.
“The good news is that for most people, spring allergies can be managed very effectively with the right treatment, some simple changes at home and knowing when symptoms need further medical attention.”
