Here comes runny nose season! For those who are affected by hay fever, Canada Pharmacy is here to help.



Hay fever is caused by an allergic reaction to the allergen pollen. When pollen particles enter into the body, it reacts by releasing an antibody to fight them off. The antibody triggers the release of certain chemicals, such as histamine in the body to help flush the pollen out of the airways. It is this process which causes many of the symptoms of hay fever.



Symptoms may vary depending on an individual's sensitivity to pollen and other spring allergens. Some of the symptoms that may occur during hay fever are:

• Watery itchy, red eyes
• Itchy ears
• Runny nose
• Stuffy or blocked nasal passage
• Headaches
• Itching in throat and nose
• Irritation and inflammation to nasal passage
• Post nasal drip

• Avoid going outdoors in early evening when the pollen count is highest
• Keep bedding clean (wash more frequently than usual to remove dust and other allergens)
• Shower or bathe before going to bed to wash pollen off your hair and skin
• Wash clothes after going outdoors as pollen can stick to garments easily and pass around your home
• Apply a small amount of Vaseline inside nostrils to trap pollen from entering your airways
• Wear sunglasses or glasses when outdoors to prevent pollen from irritating eyes
• Keep doors and windows shut at home and in the car to prevent interaction with allergens
• Dust and vacuum regularly to minimize the presence of allergens