Spring Allergy Guide: OTC Products to Beat Pollen Season
Spring Allergies Hit Seniors Hard
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) affects millions of seniors. Tree pollen starts in March, grass pollen peaks in May-June, and weed pollen carries through fall. The right combination of OTC allergy products can make the difference between suffering and comfort.
Antihistamines Compared
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec): Fast-acting (works within 1 hour), effective for 24 hours. The most potent of the second-generation antihistamines. May cause slight drowsiness in some people
- Loratadine (Claritin): Less likely to cause drowsiness than cetirizine. Slightly less potent but well-tolerated. Good choice if cetirizine makes you sleepy
- Fexofenadine (Allegra): Least sedating of the three. Preferred for seniors who are sensitive to drowsiness or take other sedating medications. Takes longer to reach full effect
- Start early: Begin taking antihistamines 1-2 weeks before your typical allergy season starts. They work better at preventing symptoms than treating active symptoms
Nasal Sprays
- Fluticasone (Flonase): Intranasal corticosteroid that's the most effective single treatment for nasal allergies. Takes 1-2 weeks of daily use for full effect. Use consistently, not as-needed
- Triamcinolone (Nasacort): Similar effectiveness to Flonase. Some people prefer the feel of one over the other. Try both if one doesn't work well for you
- Saline spray: Non-medicated saline rinses clear pollen from nasal passages. Use before medicated sprays for better absorption. Safe for unlimited daily use
Eye Drops
- Ketotifen (Zaditor/Alaway): Antihistamine eye drops that relieve itchy, watery eyes for up to 12 hours. The best first-line treatment for allergic eye symptoms
- Artificial tears: Flush pollen from eyes and soothe irritation. Use preservative-free drops if you need them more than 4 times daily
Building Your Allergy Kit
- Combination approach: The most effective allergy strategy combines an oral antihistamine + nasal steroid spray + eye drops as needed. This three-pronged approach covers all symptoms
- Use your benefit strategically: Buy a 3-month supply of daily allergy medications with your Q2 benefit (April). This covers the worst pollen months