WILLOWBANK PHARMACY OCTOBER

2012 nEWSLETTERHay Fever (also known as Allergic Rhinitis): Spring is upon us and with it comes hayfever. Seasonal hayfever is an allergic reaction in the nose, throat and eyes caused by inhaling the pollens that are present in the air during certain times of the year, usually September, October and November. Seasonal hayfever symptoms are often worse in the mornings and on windy days when air-borne pollen levels are highest.

Some suffer from hayfever all year round and this is usually caused by inhaling everyday allergens such as animal dander, mould spores and dust mites. Frequent and continuous episodes of hayfever can lead to long-term sinus problems such as chronic sinusitis.

Signs and Symptoms of Hayfever/Allergic Rhinitis: Sneezing A running and/or blocked nose Puffy, itchy, watery and red eyes Itchy nose, ears, mouth or throat Post-nasal drip, causing a cough Decreased sense of smell and taste

Ways to protect against Hayfever/Allergic Rhinitis: If you are prone to hayfever there are a few tricks you can use to avoid it: Identify and try to avoid exposure to any of your usual allergic triggers; stay indoors when the pollen count is high; keep house and car windows closed and use air conditioning and/or air filtering systems during pollen season; keep air conditioners and filters clean; remove house and garden plants that trigger hay fever; wear sunglasses and a face mask when mowing lawns; avoid cigarette smoke and make your house smoke free; avoid room deodorisers, mothballs and insect sprays; clean your house regularly to remove mould and dust; dust with a damp cloth and vacuum instead of sweeping.

We got rid of the kids…. the cat was allergic!!

Medicines that can relieve symptoms of Hayfever/Allergic Rhinitis: Antihistamines: This medication will help to reduce the allergic reaction and can

relieve itching, sneezing, runny nose and eye symptoms. They work quickly to give prompt relief of symptoms. Antihistamines are available as tablets, syrups, nasal sprays and eye drops. Drowsiness is a side effect of some oral antihistamines however non-drowsy versions are available.

Decongestants: These reduce nasal and sinus congestion (blocked nose). They are available as tablets, syrups and nasal drops/sprays. Do not use nasal drops/sprays for more than 4-5 days in a row to avoid developing a ‘rebound congestion’ effect.

These are not suitable if you have a history of heart or blood pressure problems.

Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays: Corticosteroid sprays can reduce or prevent inflammation of the lining of the nose and sinuses. This will help to relieve symptoms such as itching, sneezing, runny nose and blocked nose. They provide some relief within a few hours, but it may take a few days of regular use before the maximum effect is obtained. Those particularly prone to seasonal allergic rhinitis may need to use these continuously throughout the allergy season.

Other treatments: Lubricating eye drops will relieve mild eye symptoms; saline nose sprays can help clear the sinuses. Pain-relieving medicines may relieve the pain associated with sinus inflammation.

You should see your Doctor: If symptoms are accompanied by a high temperature; If you also have an earache; If you also have swollen glands in the neck; If there is a yellow or creamy discharge from the eyes; If you have yellow or green mucus in the nose; If you are experiencing shortness of breath or wheezing; If you have a persistent cough If you have any other pre-existing condition eg. Asthma.

References: Better Health Channel:

http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Hayfever NPS Medicine Wise:

http://www.nps.org.au/bemedicinewise/medicinewise_articles/managing_hay_fever