Allergies that occur during certain times of the year are known as seasonal allergies. Sometimes called hay fever, seasonal allergies can cause sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose and itchy, watery eyes.

Fortunately, there are lots of ways to turn this sneezing season into a sensational summer. We spoke to Myrna Hamer, a pharmacist at Grant Park Co-op Pharmacy with Red River Co-op in Winnipeg, Man., about why seasonal allergies happen and what you can do to ease your symptoms.

What causes seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies happen at the same time every year because of nature’s pollination cycle. Allergy season usually occurs during spring and summer, but it can extend into late fall.

During this time, tree, grass and ragweed pollen is in the air. Mold spores are another trigger, which are released when the weather is humid, wet or damp. These pollen and mold spores are known as allergens.

“Exposure to these allergens in people affected with seasonal allergies triggers your immune system to act as if the substance is harmful to the body,” said Hamer. This immune response is what causes your symptoms.

What are the typical seasonal allergy symptoms, and how can I get relief?

Those with seasonal allergies will experience some common symptoms:

• itchy, red, watery eyes
• runny nose and sneezing
• sore throat
• itchy throat or ears
• in serious cases, coughing and wheezing

Allergy symptoms can be mildly irritating or downright disruptive, but help is available.

“Several types of over-the-counter medications can help ease allergy symptoms,” said Hamer.

Oral antihistamines help with runny nose, sneezing, itching and watery eyes.

Saline nasal rinses help to flush out mucus and allergens from the nose. Steroid nasal sprays help to reduce swelling in the nose but can take days or weeks to work. Steroid sprays need to be used daily and are very effective for congestion and post-nasal drip.

Decongestants provide relief from nasal congestion and are available in nasal sprays and oral tablets. Both should be used only for a limited duration, and decongestant nasal sprays should only be used for up to three days in a row.

“It is best to speak to your pharmacist before using these medications to determine if they are right for you,” said Hamer.

How can you limit seasonal allergen exposure?

Before going outside, check the local forecast for air quality alerts, and wear a pollen mask if you’re going to be outdoors for an extended time. If the pollen and mould counts are too high, stay inside and keep the windows and doors closed.

When you’re back indoors, limit the number of allergens that stick around your home. It helps to immediately take a shower, wash your hair and change into clean clothing. Dry your clothes indoors instead of outside on a clothesline.

Several steps can be taken to avoid or reduce exposure to outdoor allergens. If you know you’ll be outside, starting medication one to two weeks before exposure to seasonal allergens can reduce your symptoms.

Your local pharmacist is an excellent resource for information to help you manage your seasonal allergies. If you have questions or need advice on any over-the-counter medications, speak to your Co-op pharmacist today.