Guest post by Trung Nguyen, Pharmacist, B. Pharm.
While hay fever usually springs to mind as one of the more common allergies, particularly during Spring time, there are plenty of other everyday nasal allergies that people might be suffering from year-round and be potentially misdiagnosing.
Perennial nasal allergies are chronic, recurrent hay fever like symptoms caused by dust mites, animal fur or hair, pollen or mould spores. Particularly sensitive people may even be triggered by grass. These allergies occur when air-bone particles enter the nose, throat or eyes, causing inflammation and irritation. This results in the symptoms most allergy sufferers dread – itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion, an itchy throat, and sometimes skin rashes, known as hives.
In most cases, the activity that triggers the allergy usually suggests the diagnosis. For example, experiencing symptoms after visiting a friend who has a heavy shedding dog would imply a pet hair allergy. You can also be allergic to more than one thing, so it is important to take note of when and where your symptoms arise each time before speaking to a medical professional.
Nasal allergies can be a frustrating and sometimes debilitating illness, but there are ways to prevent and alleviate your symptoms. Here’s my best advice for finding relief.
Know your symptoms
As any pharmacist will tell you, in order to treat an ailment, we must first be able to correctly diagnose it, which is why it’s important we understand exactly what your symptoms are.
Often patients will come to me in search of cold & flu medication, when what they’re actually experiencing is an allergic reaction. In order to distinguish between a cold or flu and allergies, take note of the particular combination of symptoms you’re experiencing.
Sneezing, an itchy throat, itchy or watery eyes, nasal congestion or a runny nose are all common symptoms of a nasal allergy, but many of these symptoms will also be present in someone with a cold or flu.
If you’re experiencing sneezing, nasal congestion, a cough or body aches, you’re likely suffering from a cold or flu. If instead you’re experiencing sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes, it’s more likely you’re suffering from allergies.
Therefore, be sure to explain to your pharmacist exactly what you’re experiencing to ensure they provide you with the correct advice and medication.
Arm yourself with the “triple threat” treatment
Once I’ve determined which allergy/ies the patient is specifically experiencing, I will usually recommend a three-step approach to managing their symptoms.
The first step is a saline nasal spray to flush out allergens and irritants in the nasal passage, and soothe and hydrate inflamed nasal tissue.
Once the patient has cleaned the nasal passage with a saline spray, the next step is a nasal decongestant. Decongestant sprays work to minimise nasal swelling and inflammation by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passage to reduce the feeling of congestion.
Saline nasal sprays are non-medicated, making them a safe and gentle option. Decongestant sprays, on the other hand, contain active ingredients so it’s important to always read the label and follow the instructions for use. I advise my patients to opt for a saline nasal spray first, followed by a decongestant, for two reasons: saline sprays hydrate the nasal passage, making it easier for the nasal tissue to then absorb the medicated spray; but, as they can also be very effective on their own, many patients find they don’t need to use a decongestant spray as frequently.
The third step is an antihistamine. Antihistamines are medicines specifically formulated to reduce or block histamines – that is, the chemicals produced by your body when it encounters allergens such as pollen or dust. By blocking these chemicals, antihistamines work to relieve allergy symptoms like itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and hives. A standard over-the-counter antihistamine like Chemists’ Own’s Desloratadine is great option here.
I recommend this “triple-threat cocktail” to all my patients suffering from nasal allergies, as it’s one of the most effective ways to relieve those unpleasant symptoms and help you get on with your day.
Be prepared
If you determine which activities or triggers you’re vulnerable to, it’s important to be prepared. Always keep a saline nasal spray with you – for example, in your desk drawer or handbag – so you can flush out your nasal passage at the first sign of irritation. It’s also useful to keep antihistamines on hand, as well as a decongestant spray, especially for days during which you know you will be coming into contact with triggers. If all else fails try CBD for allergies.
While it’s impossible to control the pollen count outdoors, it might make sense to eliminate any allergens within the home where possible. This might mean keeping pets brushed and groomed to reduce pet hair around the house, and keeping floors and surfaces free of dust.
Nasal allergies can be a debilitating and unpleasant illness to experience, but thankfully there are ways manage it and find relief. The next time you find yourself sneezing and rubbing your eyes at the mere sight of your best friend’s pet dog, try my top tips for combatting allergies and you’ll find yourself offering up your pet-sitting skills in no time.