As summer winds down and families prepare for a new school year and cooler weather, it's a good time to think ahead about fall allergies and asthma.
Changes in weather, outdoor allergens, and increased time indoors can trigger symptoms for many people. A little preparation now can help keep symptoms under control and prevent unexpected trips to the doctor or pharmacy.
Here are a few things you can do before fall allergy season gets underway.
Know Your Fall Allergy Triggers
Spring isn't the only season that causes allergies. Fall can bring its own set of triggers, particularly ragweed pollen and mold spores.
Common allergy symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Postnasal drip
- Scratchy throat
- Coughing
If you notice your symptoms returning around the same time each year, seasonal allergies may be playing a role.
Check Your Allergy Medications
Before symptoms become a problem, take a look at the medications you already have at home.
Check:
- Expiration dates
- Prescription refills
- Nasal sprays
- Antihistamines
- Eye drops
- Children's allergy medications
Don't wait until your symptoms are severe to discover that your medication has expired or you're out of refills.
Your pharmacist can also help you determine which over-the-counter allergy products may be appropriate for you.
Don't Forget About Asthma
For people with asthma, allergies can be an important trigger.
Allergens and respiratory infections can cause inflammation and narrowing of the airways, potentially leading to:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
If allergies tend to make your asthma worse, getting your allergy symptoms under control may be an important part of managing your asthma.
Check Your Inhalers
August is a great time to make sure your inhalers are ready for the months ahead.
Check:
- Is your rescue inhaler expired?
- Do you have enough doses remaining?
- Do you have refills available?
- Are you using your inhaler correctly?
- Do you have a spacer if one has been recommended?
If you use a daily controller medication, continue taking it exactly as prescribed—even when you're feeling well.
Don't wait until you're having trouble breathing to discover that your inhaler is empty.
Reduce Allergy Exposure at Home
You can't eliminate every allergen, but you can reduce your exposure.
Try:
- Keeping windows closed when pollen counts are high
- Showering and changing clothes after spending time outdoors
- Washing bedding regularly
- Keeping pets off your bed if you're allergic to them
- Using a HEPA-filter vacuum if appropriate
- Addressing indoor moisture and mold
During high-pollen days, consider moving outdoor activities to times when pollen exposure is lower.
Don't Forget About School
For children with asthma or allergies, the start of school is a good time to make sure their health information is up to date.
Parents should talk with their child's healthcare provider and school about appropriate plans for medications such as:
- Rescue inhalers
- Epinephrine auto-injectors
- Allergy medications
Make sure the school has any required medication forms and that emergency medications are current and accessible according to school policy.
Consider Your Fall Vaccines
Fall is also a good time to review your vaccinations.
Respiratory illnesses can be particularly challenging for people with asthma, so talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about which vaccines are recommended for you and your family.
Know When It's More Than Allergies
Not every cough or breathing problem is caused by allergies.
Seek medical attention if you experience significant difficulty breathing, severe wheezing, swelling of the lips or tongue, blue or gray lips or skin, confusion, or other signs of a medical emergency.
If your asthma symptoms are becoming more frequent or you're needing your rescue inhaler more often than usual, talk with your healthcare provider.
Your Pharmacist Can Help You Prepare
Your pharmacist can be a valuable resource when getting ready for allergy and asthma season.
We can help you:
- Choose appropriate OTC allergy medications
- Check for medication interactions
- Review your inhaler technique
- Identify potential medication side effects
- Make sure prescriptions are up to date
- Answer questions about your medications
A few minutes of preparation now can make a big difference when fall symptoms arrive.
Start Fall Healthy
Don't wait until you're sneezing, wheezing, or searching through the medicine cabinet for an expired inhaler.
Take some time this August to review your medications, refill prescriptions, and make a plan for managing fall allergies and asthma.
Stop by our pharmacy if you have questions about your allergy or asthma medications. We're here to help you and your family breathe easier and stay healthy all season long.