If you are someone who suffers from seasonal allergies, you know how they have a habit of sneaking up on you, leaving you unprepared for the onslaught of frustrating symptoms. However, with the help of your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, you can get yourself prepared for allergy season and take back control of your life.
What Are The Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
When you encounter an allergen, your immune system identifies them as a threat and triggers the release of histamines in your blood. This is what causes most of the common symptoms of seasonal allergies, which might include:
- Sneezing
- Nasal Congestion
- Itchy, Watering Eyes
- Itchy Skin
- Fatigue
Understand What Triggers You Allergy
The first step in preparing yourself for allergy season is understanding what triggers your allergies. Seasonal allergies will flare up whenever your immune system reacts to your particular allergen. The most common allergen for seasonal allergies is, of course, pollen. However, did you know that there are different types of pollen? Also, different plants produce their pollen at different times of the year. For example, tree pollen is the significant allergen in the spring, while grass pollen is more prevalent in Summer. Knowing which type of pollen triggers your allergies will help you know when to expect those symptoms to kick in.
Stock Up On Medication in Advance
The next step is something that your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, can help you with. It is essential to stock up on your allergy medications before the symptoms start so that you are not caught short with nothing in your medicine cabinet. It is a good idea to go through any medication on hand and check the expiration dates. Expired medications are not as effective and should be disposed of properly. Once you have cleared out the old medicine, you will have a better idea of what you need to pick up from the local pharmacy in Powell, TN, and what prescriptions you might need to have your doctor write up for you. It is also a good idea to check the active ingredients of your medication and make sure it relieves allergy and targets the symptoms. For example, some allergy medications do not contain a decongestant, so you must purchase a separate one. Similarly, you may want to buy some eye drops to soothe itchy eyes. Your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, can recommend some products if you need some help.
Pay Attention to Pollen Count Reports
Most weather channels now include a pollen count with the daily weather report. This will help you know when there are likely to be higher pollen levels in your area. If possible, you should avoid spending a lot of time outdoors or opening your windows when the pollen count is increased, as this is likely to exacerbate your allergies. The pollen count is based on the number of pollen grains in a cubic meter of air.
Change Your Diet
One thing that comes as a surprise to many allergy sufferers is that adding lots of fresh fruit and vegetables to your diet can help with seasonal allergies. This is because they have a lot of antioxidants and are rich in vitamins that can help you to fight the inflammation that will often come along with allergy flare-ups. However, suppose you are allergic to Fall pollens. In that case, you need to avoid certain foods like bananas, chamomile, melons, and sunflower seeds, as these contain similar proteins to ragweed pollen and could trigger some allergy symptoms.
Tidy Up the Garden Early
It can be tricky if you enjoy working in the garden when you have seasonal allergies. If possible, it is a good idea to do your spring tidy-up as early as possible. Make sure you clear out dead leaves and plants to prevent mold growth, as this is also a trigger for seasonal allergies. If you need to tend your garden, it is better to do it later in the day. Pollen counts tend to be higher in the morning.
Change Your Air Filters
If you have air conditioning in your home, make sure you change your air filter seasonally. This will help to keep the air inside your home free from allergens. It can also be helpful to use mattress and pillow covers that can be removed and washed regularly to remove traces of pollen and other allergens.
These are just a few tips that can help you prepare for seasonal allergies. If you need any additional advice, you can stop by your local pharmacy in Powell, TN.
Your Hometown Pharmacy Since 1966
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Vaughn Pharmacy is a local, family-owned pharmacy serving the community in Powell, TN. Specializing in providing personalized and attentive prescription programs to our patients, we believe you are more than just a number – you’re part of our family!
(865) 947-1581