Seasonal Allergy Assessment & Treatment in Edmonton
Find Relief From Seasonal Allergies
Sneezing. Runny nose. Itchy eyes. Nasal congestion.
Seasonal allergies can make it difficult to enjoy daily activities, concentrate at work, sleep well, or spend time outdoors. Our prescribing pharmacist can assess your symptoms and recommend treatment options to help you find relief.
With a valid Alberta Health Care card, eligible pharmacist assessments are billed to Alberta Health Care.
Book an appointment online, call us, or walk in.
Common Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
You may benefit from an allergy assessment if you are experiencing:
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Sneezing
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Runny nose
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Stuffy nose or nasal congestion
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Itchy nose
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Itchy throat
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Itchy, watery, or red eyes
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Postnasal drip
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Allergy-related cough
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Fatigue caused by ongoing symptoms
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Symptoms that occur during certain seasons of the year
Seasonal allergies are also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever.
What Causes Seasonal Allergies?
Seasonal allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as pollen, grass, weeds, or mold spores. This reaction causes the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.
Common allergy triggers include:
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Tree pollen
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Grass pollen
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Weed pollen, including ragweed
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Outdoor mold spores
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Dust mites
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Pet dander
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Indoor molds
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Smoke and air pollutants
Some individuals are more likely to develop allergies due to family history. If one parent has allergies, a child has an increased risk of developing allergic conditions.
How Can a Prescribing Pharmacist Help?
Our prescribing pharmacist can:
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Assess your symptoms and medical history
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Determine whether allergies may be the cause of your symptoms
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Help distinguish allergies from a cold, sinus infection, or other conditions
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Recommend non-medication strategies
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Recommend over-the-counter treatments
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Prescribe medication when appropriate
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Provide education on avoiding allergy triggers
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Refer you to another healthcare professional when necessary
Many patients seek treatment after weeks of symptoms, but early treatment may help reduce the impact allergies have on your daily life.
Treatment Options
Treatment recommendations depend on your symptoms, severity, age, medical history, and response to previous treatments.
Treatment options may include:
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Oral antihistamines
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Prescription antihistamines
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Nasal corticosteroid sprays
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Saline nasal rinses
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Allergy eye drops
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Short-term decongestants when appropriate
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Allergen avoidance strategies
For many patients, nasal corticosteroid sprays are among the most effective treatments for controlling nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose associated with seasonal allergies.
Our prescribing pharmacist will help determine which treatment option is most appropriate for your situation.
Prevention & Self-Care Tips
You may help reduce allergy symptoms by:
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Keeping windows closed during high pollen days
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Using air conditioning when possible
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Monitoring local pollen forecasts
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Showering and changing clothes after outdoor activities
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Wearing sunglasses outdoors
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Avoiding tobacco smoke
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Using allergen-resistant mattress and pillow covers
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Keeping pets out of bedrooms if pet allergies are suspected
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Using saline nasal rinses to remove allergens from the nasal passages
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Starting allergy medications before symptoms become severe
Reducing exposure to allergens may help decrease symptom severity and improve treatment outcomes.
Why Choose Pharmacist Prescribing?
Faster Access to Care
Avoid lengthy walk-in clinic waits and speak directly with a prescribing pharmacist.
Convenient Assessment Options
Book online, call, or walk in when available.
Covered with Alberta Health Care
Minor ailment assessments are covered for patients with a valid Alberta Health Care card.
Personalized Care & Medication Expertise
Pharmacists are medication experts. Your prescribing pharmacist can review your medication history, assess potential drug interactions, discuss treatment options, and consider prescription insurance coverage when recommending therapy. When appropriate, covered or lower-cost alternatives may be discussed to help reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Seasonal allergies can significantly affect sleep, work productivity, school performance, and overall quality of life. Early assessment and treatment may help you feel better sooner and prevent symptoms from becoming more disruptive.
Why Choose Whole Health Pharmacy Edmonton?
At Whole Health Pharmacy Edmonton, you'll receive personalized care from an experienced prescribing pharmacist who takes the time to understand your symptoms and treatment goals.
Prescribing Pharmacist Available
Assessment and treatment for eligible uncomplicated UTIs.
Same-Day Appointments
Timely access to care when symptoms start.
Online Booking with Pre-Assessment Questions
Streamline your appointment before you arrive.
Independent Edmonton Pharmacy
Personalized healthcare support from a local community pharmacy.
Convenient Location
Whole Health Pharmacy Edmonton
13578 Fort Road NW
Edmonton, AB T5A 1C5
Phone: 587-524-9928
Whether you're struggling with sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, or ongoing seasonal allergy symptoms, we're here to help you find relief and get back to enjoying your day.
When Should I Seek Medical Attention?
Seek medical attention if you experience:
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Wheezing or shortness of breath
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Severe facial pain or sinus pain
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Persistent headaches
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Symptoms affecting only one nostril
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Symptoms that continue to worsen despite treatment
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Symptoms that do not improve after trying recommended therapies
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Severe swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
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Signs of a severe allergic reaction
Children younger than 2 years of age and pregnant individuals should be assessed by their primary healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between allergies and a cold?
Allergies commonly cause sneezing, itchy eyes, itchy nose, and clear nasal drainage. Colds are more likely to cause sore throat, fever, body aches, and symptoms that usually improve within 7 to 10 days.
Can allergies cause fatigue?
Yes. Ongoing allergy symptoms can interfere with sleep quality and may contribute to daytime tiredness or fatigue.
Can allergies cause a cough?
Yes. Postnasal drip caused by allergies may trigger coughing, particularly at night.
Can allergies develop later in life?
Yes. Some people develop seasonal allergies as adults, even if they did not have allergies during childhood.
Can allergies trigger asthma?
Yes. Allergies and asthma are closely linked. In some individuals, allergy symptoms may worsen asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
What is the best allergy medication?
The best treatment depends on your symptoms. Antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops, and other treatments may be appropriate. Our prescribing pharmacist can help determine the most suitable option.
When is allergy season in Edmonton?
Tree pollen is often highest in spring, grass pollen is common in late spring and summer, and weed pollen such as ragweed may continue into late summer and fall.
Are pharmacist allergy assessments covered?
With a valid Alberta Health Care card, there is no out of pocket payment.
Don't let seasonal allergies interfere with your sleep, work, school, or daily activities.
Our prescribing pharmacist can assess your symptoms and help you find the most appropriate treatment option.
Book online, call us, or visit our pharmacy today.
