Allergy Season Guide For Pharmacists

Allergy season can be an overwhelming time of year for both pharmacists and customers alike.According to the CDC, about one-quarter (25.7%) of adults have a seasonal allergy, 7.3% have eczema, and 6.2% have a food allergy. As a pharmacist, it’s important to remain informed on the latest treatments and manage customer expectations when it comes to medications that can help control allergy symptoms.

It is also essential to understand what causes allergies in order to provide the best customer care. Allergies are caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking harmless particles, called allergens, as if they were dangerous invaders in the body. These allergens can range from pollen to dust mites or pet dander. When airborne particles come into contact with the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs they can cause an allergic reaction that ranges from mild to severe.

How Pharmacists Can Help

For customers suffering from seasonal allergies, pharmacists can be an invaluable source of knowledge and support. Pharmacists can:

• Provide advice on over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids that can help ease symptoms of allergic reactions.
• Suggest ways to reduce exposure to allergens, such as using air purifiers or avoiding outdoor activities when pollen counts are high.
• Advise patients on allergy-proofing homes and selecting the right type of bedding or clothing that may help minimize symptoms.
• Help patients who may be at risk of severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, create an emergency action plan.

By educating customers on allergen avoidance and offering treatment options, pharmacists can help make allergy season more bearable for those suffering from seasonal allergies.

Resources

Stay informed and up-to-date on the latest treatments and research to best serve your customers during allergy season. As a trusted healthcare provider, you are in the unique position of being able to provide advice and comfort for those struggling with seasonal allergies.

Here are a few resources to help you stay informed:

• American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI): With up-to-date information on allergy season and treatment options, ACAAI is an excellent resource for pharmacists.
• American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI): AAAAI provides pharmacy-specific information on allergies, including resources to help pharmacists develop personalized treatment plans.
• The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA): AAFA offers a range of educational materials on allergies and asthma so that pharmacists can better serve their customers.
• The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID): NIAID’s website contains research and clinical trials related to allergies and immunology, as well as fact sheets and other resources.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC’s website provides data and statistics on allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions, as well as strategies to help manage symptoms.

By staying informed on the latest treatments, pharmacists can provide excellent customer service during allergy season. With knowledge, skill, and a caring attitude, pharmacists can make a big difference in the lives of their customers.