ALLERGYguide

It’s time to simplify allergy care.

Tips and advice from your pharmacist.

#201172 Rev 4/06 Form #1913

 Keep windows closed in your house and car
to reduce exposure to pollens.3
Rite Aid Pharmacists:
Helping You To Better Health
Rite Aid is committed to providing the everyday products and services that Did you know?
help our valued patients lead healthier, happier lives. An important part of The long or short of it
that quality service is found in patient education. That’s why Rite Aid has is: no matter what
worked together with the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & the length of your
Immunology (AAAAI) to obtain information to help develop this allergy guide.
Allergies pets’ fur, your pet
produces dander.2
The AAAAI is the largest professional medical specialty organization in the
United States dedicated to advancing the knowledge and practice of allergy,
At-A-Glance
asthma and immunology. Much of the information included in this guide has The symptoms may be familiar—the runny nose,
been provided by the AAAAI. As Rite Aid continues its mission of ensuring watery eyes, wheezing or sneezing that can go
customers receive the quality service that really makes a difference, the along with allergies. But what are allergies?
AAAAI has been an invaluable resource in helping us further that mission. What causes them? And how do you begin to
The AAAAI does not endorse any particular pharmacy or commercial product treat them?
within this booklet; it is dedicated to providing comprehensive educational
information regarding allergies and allergic conditions. Allergies are your body’s over-reaction to
common things found in the environment
called “allergens.” Allergens can include
pollen or mold spores. They might include
the dead flakes of skin or saliva from
household pets called “animal dander.”
Dust is a common allergen, as are
certain foods or drugs.1 And while
having allergies may be hereditary, the
allergen that triggers your symptoms
may be completely different than those
of your family members.2

The good news is that allergies can be

controlled and treated. You begin by:

• Learning what triggers your allergies

• Working with your healthcare
professional and pharmacist to
diagnose and relieve your allergies
• Making lifestyle changes to reduce
allergens around you.1

Sources: 1. American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. “How to Help Your Allergies
and Asthma.” 2. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. “Patients & Consumers Center:
Tips to Remember: Prevention of Allergies and Asthma in Children.” 3. American Academy of Allergy,
Asthma & Immunology. “Patients & Consumers Center: Tips to Remember: Outdoor Allergens.”
 Avoid fresh cut grass and raking leaves –
they stir up pollens and molds.1
Testing for Allergies
In order to treat your allergies, your doctor may first ask to perform a “I’m sneezing, my head’s stuffed up.”
number of simple allergy tests. This will better help you understand just
what allergens affect you, determine the right treatment, and guide any Many people may not realize they have allergies, often thinking that their
lifestyle changes that may further control your allergies.1 congestion and runny nose may be a cold. Left untreated, allergies can cause
more serious conditions like sinusitis or ear infections. It is important to distinguish
The most common types of allergy tests are skin tests and blood tests
between allergies and colds, enlisting the help of a physician when appropriate.
(also called “radioallergosorbent”—or “RAST”— tests). Because different
A cold is caused by a virus, where as an allergy is the body’s response to a specific
allergens are made up of different proteins, these allergy tests use these
allergen. Allergens are often common, usually otherwise harmless substances such
proteins to help demonstrate which of them are causing your symptoms.
as pollen, mold spores, animal dander, dust, foods, insect venoms and drugs.
For skin tests, this can be done by pricking or scratching the skin with a tiny
quantity of an allergen protein, or by injecting this protein under the skin Symptoms Duration Triggers or Causes
with a syringe using a technique called “intradermal testing.” For blood Symptoms should clear Virus
Colds - Fever
tests, your doctor will take a blood sample and introduce the - Aches and pains up within several days to
allergen there.1 - Allergy symptoms a week.

The results for skin tests are usually available very quickly—often within Symptoms usually take a
15 minutes of testing—while the results of blood tests are more involved few days to hit full force.
and therefore, may take slightly longer.1 Allergies - Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
By knowing the allergies that affect you, you take one step closer to a more - Wheezing
allergy-free day! - Watery and itchy eyes
Symptoms begin
almost immediately after
By understanding your allergies and how to treat them, soon you and exposure to allergen(s).
your family will be on your way to a healthier, more allergy-free lifestyle. 2
Acute - Profuse, thick, colored
Sinusitis nasal drainage
- Bad tasting,
Understanding Allergy Symptoms post-nasal drip
- Cough
- Head congestion or
Allergy symptoms can be caused by a number of very different allergens. headache
So how do you determine whether you have allergies and, if so, what you’re - A “plugged up” nose
- A feeling of facial swelling
allergic to?
- Toothache
What if your head is stuffy and you’re sneezing? - Constant tiredness
- Fever
What if you’re experiencing dry and itchy skin?
The charts on the following pages can guide you. Just remember, this information
is intended to help you educate yourself on common allergic conditions, and
shouldn’t replace professional diagnosis. Consult your healthcare professional Chronic Chronic sinusitis
with any questions or concerns about the symptoms that may be affecting you. Sinusitis symptoms are similar to
those of acute sinusitis,
Your doctor is there to make sure you receive proper diagnosis and treatment.
however, patients usually
do not have a fever.
Sources: 1. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. “Patients & Consumers Center: Tips to Remember: What is Allergy Testing?”
2. American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. “How to Help Your Allergies and Asthma.” Sources: 1. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. “Patients & Consumers Center: Tips to Remember: Outdoor Allergies.”
Symptoms last as long Allergens such as pollen,
as you are exposed to mold spores, animal
the allergen and until the dander, dust, foods, insect
reaction triggered by venoms and possibly drugs.
the allergen ends. If the
allergen is present year-
round, symptoms may
be chronic.
Symptoms may last for Acute sinusitis is often
3-4 weeks. caused by a bacterial
infection. It usually develops
as a complication of a viral
respiratory infection, such as
the common cold, especially if
symptoms last more than
7 to 10 days.
The inflammation seen
is usually triggered by
inadequate draining. This may be
seen due to allergies, viral or bac-
terial infections or
physical problems in the nose.
A diagnosis of chronic Factors such as allergies
sinusitis is made when or bacterial infection also
sinusitis symptoms play a major role in chronic
persist for more than sinusitis by producing
4 weeks. inflammation in the sinus
membranes.
 You can reduce the risk of childhood food allergies by
delaying the child’s exposure to potentially-allergenic foods
“My skin is really dry and itchy, what do I do?” like milk, wheat, corn, egg, fish, and peanuts.1

Whenever you have an unusual rash, be sure to contact your family physician or
allergist. They can help determine the cause, whether it is allergies, irritants, or
another trigger. Most importantly, your physician and other health care providers
Allergy Prevention
can offer a support system and assist you in managing your skin condition. in Children
You may have more than just dry skin. Did you know you can reduce the chance that your
There are several skin conditions that share symptoms similar to those of dry child develops certain allergies? While allergies do run
skin. They include eczema, hives or urticaria, and dermatitis. in families, there are steps you can take to delay—or
even prevent—your child from developing allergic
Eczema is a common allergic skin reaction often seen on the face, elbows reactions to foods or the environment.1
and knees that appears as an itchy, bubbly rash. It is often caused by over-
heating or sweating, contact with irritants such as wool, pets or soaps, To reduce the risk of food allergies, delay your child’s
emotional stress, food and infections. exposure to foods that are commonly known to be
allergens by introducing them in stages. For instance,
Hives or urticaria are red, itchy, swollen areas of the skin that can range in begin your infant’s diet with breast milk for the first
size and appear anywhere on the body. Hives are often caused by a viral four to six months, and you can prevent potential
infection, drug, food or latex, or reactions to medicines and foods. allergic reactions while strengthening your child’s
Allergic contact dermatitis is best identified by an itchy, red, blistered immune system. If breast-feeding isn’t possible,
reaction and occurs where the offending agent-such as a plant or chemical- consider using partially pre-digested, protein
comes in contact with the skin. Reactions can occur 24-48 hours after contact. hydrolysate formulas over milk- or soy-based
choices, which may cause allergic reactions.1
For all three of these allergic skin conditions, preventing the itch is the pri-
mary goal of treatment. There are some self-treatments that you may find Between six to twelve months of age, introduce
helpful for relieving itchy skin: solid foods—like vegetables, rice, meat and fruit.
Each food should be introduced one at a time so
• Applying cold compresses
that foods causing a reaction can be identified
• Lubricating the dry skin with cream or ointment
and eliminated. After one year, you may add milk,
• Removing "irritants" that aggravate the condition
wheat, corn, citrus and soy. By age two, eggs may
• Relieving symptoms with oral antihistamines or topical
be introduced and at age three, fish and peanuts
anti-inflammatory medications (see the shopping guide)
may be added as well.1

To reduce the risk of environmental allergies, control

Did you know?
Pollens from plants with
bright flowers, like roses,
usually don’t trigger
allergies. Their pollen
is larger and harder to
inhale.1
Common treatments include over-the-counter
medications and in some cases, prescriptions.
Please see the following page for Rite Aid
Pharmacist recommendations. If you have any
questions, please consult your Rite Aid
Pharmacist or doctor.
Sources: 1. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. “Patients
& Consumers Center: Tips to Remember: Outdoor Allergens.”
dust and animal dander by taking the preventative
measures discussed in “Top Ten Tips to Allergy-
Proofing” in this guide.
By taking measures the moment you bring your
child home from the hospital, you really can help
your child get off to a healthier, happier and more
allergy-free start.1
Sources: 1. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. “Patients & Consumers
Center: Tips to Remember: Prevention of Allergies and Asthma in Children”
 Avoid tobacco smoke, which can worsen
allergy and asthma symptoms.1
Shopping for There are so many over-the-counter allergy medications
available today, choosing the right one can be very
and their symptoms.
And if you have any
Allergy Relief confusing. Do you need an antihistamine or a
decongestant? How do you find the proper treatment
questions, make sure you consult your doctor or
pharmacist. They can help you understand the differences
for you? The following chart suggests a number of between similar products, and start feeling better soon.
products that can be effective to treat common allergies
Symptoms What To Use How It Works Rite Aid Pharmacist Recommends

- Runny nose Oral Antihistamines Blocks histamine, which causes many allergy symptoms, Diphenhydramine: Rite Aid Complete Allergy, Benadryl
- Sneezing such as itching of the eyes and nose, runny nose, and Loratadine: Rite Aid Loratadine, Claritin
- Wheezing sneezing. Did you know?
- Watery and itchy eyes You can get up-to-date
pollen counts for your area
- Runny nose Oral Antihistamines/ Blocks histamine to relieve allergy symptoms, including Diphenhydramine / pseudoephedrine: Benadryl D
- Stuffy nose Decongestants itching of the eyes and nose, runny nose, and sneezing. online at www.pollen.com.
- Sneezing Narrows blood vessels and reduces blood flow in the Brompheniramine / pseudoephedrine: Rite Aid Cold and Allergy DiBromm
- Wheezing affected area, which helps clear congestion and Elixir, Dimetapp Cold and Allergy Elixir
- Watery and itchy eyes improves breathing.
Loratadine / pseudoephedrine: Rite Aid Lorata-D, Claritin-D

- Stuffy nose Oral Decongestants Narrows blood vessels and reduces blood flow in the Phenylephrine: Sudafed PE Remember, these
affected area, which helps clear congestion and Pseudoephedrine: Rite Aid Pseudoephedrine, Sudafed
improves breathing. products are listed for
educational purposes
Nasal Decongestants Same as above. Do not use more than 3 days because Oxymetazoline: Rite Aid 12-Hour Nasal Spray, Afrin
rebound congestion can occur. Phenylephrine: Neo-Synephrine only and are not intended
as a substitute for medical
Nasal Strips Drug-free strips that lift the sides of the nose to open Rite Aid Nasal Strips, Breathe Right
the nasal passages. advice or diagnosis.
Please consult your
- Watery and itchy eyes Eye Drops Narrows blood vessels and blocks histamine in the eye Naphazoline and pheniramine: Rite Aid Eye Allergy Relief Drops, Visine A,
- Redness to relieve symptoms. Naphcon A healthcare professional
with any questions about
- Watery eyes Nasal Mast Cell Prevents mast cells from releasing histamine and other Cromolyn Sodium, Nasalcrom
- Runny nose Inhibitors triggers of inflammation. It does not stop inflammation your symptoms or the
- Sneezing once it has begun. You should start treatment before the
treatment options that
allergy season begins and use daily.
may be right for you.

- Itchy skin / Moisturizing Creams Lubricates dry skin. Rite Aid Oatmeal Lotion, Aveeno, Eucerin
rash / hives
Anti-inflammatory Acts against most causes of inflammation by decreasing Hydrocortisone cream, lotion and ointment: Rite Aid Hydrocortisone,
Ointments and Creams: the formation, release and activity of histamine and Cortizone 10
Topical Corticosteroids other triggers of inflammation. The above products have not been reviewed or
approved by the AAAAI.

Topical Antihistamines Includes some local anesthetic activity to Diphenhydramine combination products: Rite Aid Anti-itch Cream (Spray or
relieve itching. Gel), Benadryl Topical
Sources: 1. American Academy of Allergy,
Asthma & Immunology. “Patients &
Oral Antihistamines Blocks histamine, one of the most important Diphenhydramine: Rite Aid Complete Allergy, Benadryl Consumers Center: Tips to Remember:
Traveling with Allergies and Asthma.”
mediators of the allergic response. Loratadine: Rite Aid Loratadine, Claritin
 When the humidity is high, stay indoors and use
air conditioning. This can lessen your exposure

Top Ten Questions to dusts and pollens.3

to Ask Your Doctor Top Ten Tips

Think you may suffer from allergies? Your healthcare professional can help you to Allergy-Proofing
determine whether you do have allergies, what allergens trigger them, and
whether over-the-counter or prescription medications, if any, are appropriate. Did you know there are some simple lifestyle changes you can make to reduce
Some questions to ask your doctor could include: your exposure to the allergens that affect you and your family?

1. What are the treatment choices for my allergies?1 1. Reduce the clutter in your home that collects dust.1

2. Would allergy shots be helpful in my case? 2 2. Use zippered, allergy-proof plastic covers on mattresses, box springs and
pillows to reduce dust mites in areas where you sleep.1
3. How can I prevent or minimize my exposure
to allergens?1 Did you know? 3. Wash bedding in 130 degree water1 every seven to ten days.
An allergy is a real This helps kill dust mites found in sheets and blankets.2
4. How can I tell whether my children have
medical condition
allergies, too, or if they will develop them?1
that deserves 4. Clean your home weekly to remove dust, molds and pet dander.1
5. What can I do to prevent my child from treatment, and is
developing allergies or asthma?3 not “in your head.”5 5. Consider replacing wall-to-wall carpeting with washable
throw rugs to reduce dander, molds and dust mites.1 Did you know?
6. Will my medications make me sleepy or
cause other side effects?1 Allergies may have
6. Keep pets outside the bedroom and bathe them weekly, symptoms that are
to reduce exposure to dander.1 similar to those of
7. Will my medications react with other drugs I’m taking?1
a cold.5 Please refer
8. How much medication should I take, and how often?1 7. Use a dehumidifier to keep your house dry and reduce to page 4 to learn
the growth of molds.1 the difference.
9. When should I stop taking medication?1
8. Request that family and guests refrain from smoking
10. Are there other symptoms of allergies I should look for?1 in your car and home.1

9. Keep windows closed and use air conditioning on

Remember, your Rite Aid Pharmacist and doctor are there to support the health
high-humidity or windy days.3,4
of you and your family, so don’t hesitate to share your concerns about allergies,
as you would with any other medical condition.
10. Dry clothes and bedding through an electric
clothes dryer instead of hanging them outside.
Pollen and molds could collect on them.3

Did you know? Moving to another region may help you

avoid old allergies–but also develop new ones!4
Sources: 1. “Doctor’s Questions Document,” from Rite Aid. 2. American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology.
“Allergic Rhinitis.” 3. American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. “Patients & Consumers Center: Tips to Remember: Prevention of
Allergies and Asthma in Children.” 4. American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. “Patients & Consumers Center: Tips to Remember:
Outdoor Allergens.” 5. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. “How to Help Your Allergies and Asthma.”
Sources: 1. American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. “How to Help Your
Allergies and Asthma.” 2. American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. “Patients &
Consumers Center: Tips to Remember: Prevention of Allergies and Asthma in Children.” 3.
American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. “Patients & Consumers Center: Tips
to Remember: Outdoor Allergens.”4. American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology.
“Allergic Rhinitis.” 5. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. “Patients &
Consumers Center: Tips to Remember: Sinusitis.”