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As the warmer weather returns in spring, so do seasonal allergies (also known as hayfever or seasonal allergic rhinitis). Tree pollens are the culprit of airborne allergens in the spring, with grass pollens in late spring to summer and weed pollens in the late summer to early fall.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont1′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]Allergy symptoms and cold symptoms overlap; however, the following symptoms are more indicative of seasonal allergies:
- sneezing
- runny nose
- nasal congestion
- itchy and watery eyes
- dark circles under the eyes (also known as ‘allergic shiners’)
- sore throat
- post-nasal drip (drainage from the nose at the back of the throat)
- headache
- fatigue
What products can you find in your pharmacy for symptom relief?
TOPICAL PRODUCTS
Nasal decongestants (e.g. oxymetazoline, xylometazoline)
These products provide faster symptom relief than oral decongestants. Their use should be limited to short periods (3–5 days) to avoid developing rebound nasal congestion.
Nasal corticosteroids
Nasal corticosteroids (also called steroids) reduce inflammation to improve symptoms. Many corticosteroids are available by prescription, but you can now purchase over-the-counter versions (e.g. Flonase®) as well.
Nasal irrigation with saline solution (e.g. Hydrasense®, NeilMed®)
These products are available via nose bidets or neti pots, squirt bottles, bulb syringes, or pulsatile irrigation systems. These have been found to be helpful to flush out irritants and mucus from the nasal passages, and to improve airflow through the nose.
Nasal breath strips, such as Breathe Right® strips, are viable non-drug alternatives for nasal congestion, as they help open the nasal passages for improved airflow.
Effect on blood glucose: topical products generally have minimal effect on blood glucose levels[/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”survive-common-cold-diabetes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont2′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]
ORAL PRODUCTS
Antihistamines are effective in preventing the development of nasal congestion and relieving other allergy symptoms. The newer (2nd & 3rd generation) antihistamines are preferred to the older (1st generation) antihistamines due to their better side effect profile (less sedation) and longer-acting formulations.
- 2nd generation antihistamines: less sedating
- Loratadine (Claritin® and store brands)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra® and store brands)
- Cetirizine (Reactine® and store brands) – may cause sedation in some people especially at a daily dose of 20 mg or more
- 3rd generation antihistamine: less sedating
- Desloratidine (Aerius® and store brands) – also has mild to moderate decongestant effect
Effect on blood glucose: oral antihistamines generally have minimal effect on blood glucose levels.
Decongestants are commonly used for short-term relief of nasal congestion. The most common oral decongestant is pseudoephedrine (e.g. Sudafed®).
Oral decongestants exert their effect mainly by constricting blood vessels in the body. Although they are helpful in reducing nasal congestion, their systemic effect throughout the body may produce side effects such as: rise in blood pressure, rise in intraocular pressure, rise in blood sugar, increased urinary retention, increased secretion of thyroid hormone and increased stimulation of cardiac symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Special precaution is also required when combining oral decongestants with certain antidepressants such as MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants.
Effect on blood glucose: the rise in blood glucose level may vary among individuals. In people with diabetes, consider more frequent blood glucose monitoring when starting to use an oral decongestant. If a pattern of increased blood glucose is noted, be sure to discuss with your health care provider whether you should continue using the product.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont3′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]
What is the smart plan?
Generally, topical products are safe to use. If a nasal decongestant is required, limit its use to a few days. When your allergy symptoms are not controlled by topical products alone, add a non-sedating antihistamine.
For oral decongestant products, it is best to talk to your health care providers before taking them. Additional helpful strategies to promote their safe use include choosing a lower dose and limiting it use to the time of day most needed for relief.
When in doubt, ask your pharmacist or health care provider for assistance. [/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”diabetes-and-seasonal-changes/”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
