Allergy Season in Full Bloom: Tips to Breathe Easier
The sun’s shining, flowers are blooming, and for many Torontonians, so are the sneezes, sniffles, and itchy eyes. Welcome to allergy season, when pollen takes centre stage and your sinuses protest.
If you’re one of the millions of Canadians who experience seasonal allergies (also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever), you know the struggle. But don’t worry, there are practical ways to ease your symptoms and enjoy the season.
Why Are Allergies Worse in June?
Seasonal allergies typically peak in late spring and early summer. That’s when trees, grasses, and weeds release large amounts of pollen into the air.
In Toronto, the main allergy triggers in June include:
- Grass pollen (Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, timothy)
- Tree pollen (oak, maple, birch, still lingering from spring)
- Weeds (early bloomers like plantain and lamb’s quarters)
Dry, windy days stir up the most pollen, so if you’ve been sneezing more lately, it’s not just in your head.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
If you’ve got allergies, your immune system reacts to pollen like a dangerous invader. The result? Symptoms like:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing fits
- Itchy eyes, nose, or throat
- Red, watery eyes
- Fatigue or irritability (yes, allergies can make you grumpy too)
How to Fight Back: Tips to Reduce Symptoms
Here are a few pharmacist-approved ways to keep your symptoms in check this June:
- Start Your Allergy Meds Early
Allergy medications work best when taken before symptoms start. Don’t wait until you’re sneezing uncontrollably.
Options include:- Antihistamines (like loratadine or cetirizine): Great for sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
- Nasal corticosteroids (like fluticasone or mometasone): Excellent for nasal congestion and overall control.
- Eye drops: Target itchy, watery eyes directly.
Your pharmacist can help you choose the right combination based on your symptoms.
- Wash the Day Off
Pollen clings to skin, hair, and clothing. After spending time outside:- Shower and change your clothes
- Avoid bringing outdoor clothing into your bedroom
- Wash your face and rinse your eyes with clean water
- Keep Windows Closed
As tempting as it is to let the breeze in, open windows invite pollen into your home. Instead, use fans or air conditioning with a clean filter to keep cool. - Check the Pollen Forecast
Apps and websites like The Weather Network offer daily pollen counts. On high-pollen days, consider limiting outdoor activity, especially in the morning when pollen is usually highest. - Try Natural Options
Some people find relief with:- Saline nasal rinses: Helps flush out pollen and reduce congestion
- HEPA filters: For your home, especially bedrooms
- Local honey (though evidence is limited, some swear by it!)
Always check with a pharmacist before trying new remedies. Natural doesn’t always mean safe for everyone.
When to Talk to Your Pharmacist
If you’ve tried everything and your symptoms are still interfering with daily life, talk to us. We can:
- Recommend stronger OTC or prescription treatments
- Check for medication interactions
- Help you identify whether it’s allergies or a cold
At Dundas West Pharmacy, we’re here to make allergy season more manageable, so you can enjoy the sunny days ahead.
Don’t Let Allergies Rule Your Summer
Seasonal allergies may be a fact of life, but they don’t have to take over your summer. With the right approach and a bit of planning, you can stay ahead of your symptoms and enjoy everything June has to offer, minus the sneezes.
Stop by Dundas West Pharmacy in Etobicoke or give us a call. Whether you need personalized advice, allergy relief products, or just someone to talk to about your symptoms, we’re always here to help.
