Retailers share advice to cope with spring allergy season
Retailers, including Rite Aid, Walmart and Walgreens are offering advice to help customers manage their allergy symptoms.
Rite Aid noted that for optimal results, it’s recommended to take allergy medications two to four weeks in advance of peak allergy season to help mitigate symptoms effectively.
“At Rite Aid, we understand how spring allergies can disrupt daily life and dampen outdoor plans. Our knowledgeable pharmacists are available to help customers find the best solutions to help manage their allergy symptoms,” said Summer Kerley, group vice president, pharmacy growth and clinical programs. “By sharing a few simple tips—such as keeping windows closed, choosing the right medication, or limiting time outdoors—Rite Aid is reinforcing our commitment to supporting communities with products and guidance they need to enjoy the season fully.”
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Rite Aid also provided the following advice:
A – Antihistamines (And Other Allergy Relief Medicines). Choosing the right allergy medication can feel daunting with the number of options available. While antihistamines are the most common allergy relief medicine—blocking the chemical that triggers allergic symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes— there are other options to help target additional allergy-related symptoms. Corticosteroids and decongestants aim to alleviate allergy symptoms by mitigating congestion and the body’s natural inflammation response to hay fever, pollen, dust and other common allergens. For optimal results, it’s recommended to take allergy medications two to four weeks in advance of peak allergy season to help mitigate symptoms effectively. Speak with your Rite Aid pharmacist about options to best address your symptoms.
B – Be Mindful of Pollen Counts. Higher pollen counts are typically linked to a greater risk of allergic reactions. When pollen counts are high, minimize exposure by keeping windows closed and limiting outdoor activities. If you have been outside, change clothing and shower promptly to avoid bringing pollen indoors.
C – Check the Label. It’s important to take any medication as instructed on the label, especially allergy medicine, as some may cause drowsiness. Choose an age-appropriate formulation and follow the recommended dosage guidelines – use the correct amount, at the right time of day, for the recommended length of time. Most allergy medicines come in formulations for both children and adults.
Customers can access additional allergy resources and find a range of over-the-counter remedies in-store or online here. Rite Aid pharmacists also can help differentiate between a common cold and allergies and can create personalized treatment plans to meet the health and wellness needs of customers during allergy season and beyond.
Walmart also is offering advice to consumers as allergy season intensifies.
Lindsey Stagmaier, a Walmart pharmacy manager, in Chattanooga, Tenn., noted that allergies affect about 1 in 4 adults and 1 in 5 children in the United States.
"They occur when the body's immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance—like pollen, pet dander or dust—as a threat. In response, the immune system releases chemicals like histamine, which trigger symptoms such as itchy and watery eyes, sneezing and nasal congestion," Stagmaier said.
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Stagmaier went on to say that the most common symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, a runny nose and itchy and watery eyes. Some people may also experience skin rashes or postnasal drip. If you have asthma, exposure to allergens can trigger serious symptoms such as wheezing or breathing difficulties that require immediate medical attention, Stagmaier noted.
Stagmaier continued, "Walmart pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals who can help customers assess their allergy symptoms, recommend the best over-the-counter medications or determine whether they should see their primary care provider for further evaluation."
Stagmaier emphasized that if you're unsure about your symptoms, your local Walmart pharmacist can help assess whether your condition can be managed with over-the-counter treatments or if a visit with your primary care provider is necessary.
"In many communities, Walmart pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare providers, offering guidance and support without the need for an appointment. Plus, Walmart is the first and only retailer to integrate prescription medications, groceries and general merchandise – including over-the counter essentials – into one online order for at-home delivery to help you manage all of your allergy season needs," she noted.
Stagmaier said when it comes to OTC products that reduce allergy symptoms, antihistamines—such as cetirizine or loratadine—work by blocking histamine, which helps relieve sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes. "These are often the best first option. There are also eye drops or nasal sprays that could be used for localized symptoms if an oral medication is not recommended. Choosing the right allergy medication depends on your symptoms, lifestyle and health conditions," she said.
Lastly, Stagmaier said, "With 90% of the U.S. population living within 10 miles of a Walmart, our pharmacists are available to help assess your symptoms and find the best treatment options—whether you need something for all-day relief, a non-drowsy option, a treatment that won’t interfere with other medications or seek additional evaluation by your primary care provider."
Walgreens also shared several recommendations for allergy sufferers.
Sonali Kshatriya, manager of office of clinical integrity at Walgreens said to help lessen your chances of a heightened allergic response to seasonal triggers like pollen consider taking OTC allergy medication in advance of any outdoor activity. "You can speak to your local Walgreens pharmacist about the best OTC allergy medication for your unique needs," Kshatriya said.
Kshatriya also recommends people limit outside exposure during peak pollen times. Pollen levels tend to peak in the morning, but also can be more prominent if it’s windy outside.
Kshatriya further advised people change their clothes after time spent outside and take a shower to rinse lingering pollen from skin and hair. The steam from a hot shower also can help relax aggravated airways.
Kshatriya also shared the following tips to cope with spring allergy season:
- Take measures to keep your indoor air clean. Close windows, use air conditioning and use an air purifier to filter allergens.
- To best address seasonal allergy discomfort, it’s important to focus on the symptoms you’re trying to relieve. If you’re sneezing but aren’t experiencing nasal congestion, you don’t need a decongestant like Pseudoephedrine. If you’re unsure, you can always ask your Walgreens pharmacist and they will help point you to the right product to help with your specific needs.
- Walgreens pharmacists are available to help customers choose the best OTC allergy relief options and medications based on individual symptoms, lifestyle and health conditions. "Our product selection includes equivalents to national brands, ensuring high-quality, cost-effective solutions," Kshatriya said.
- If OTC medications are not providing relief or symptoms are worsening, symptoms are interfering with daily life, or if you’re experiencing wheezing or shortness of breath, it's best to consult your pharmacist or health care provider for specialized treatment options.