Hey there, Frontier Fam! Simon here, and today I want to talk to y'all about seasonal allergies. Achoo! Woof, excuse me.
What are seasonal allergies?
Some folks have sensitivities to certain flowers, pollens, dust, grass, weeds, etc. When their bodies encounter these allergens, their immune system wrongfully thinks it needs to react, and unfortunately allergy symptoms emerge. A genetic tendency towards having these sensitivities, plus exposure to allergens in your area, can cause these flare ups. Anybody can develop allergies, at any time. Symptoms include congestion, runny nose, coughing, itchy skin & eyes, and even feeling fatigued n' sick!
Will they ever go away?
Sometimes the body will develop a sort of immunity to certain allergens, as it learns these materials are not actually a threat. Other times, however, the body unfortunately never gets used to these allergens...and all we can do is treat symptoms. Bark!
How do I treat them?
Well, you can pick up some antihistamines at Frontier Pharmacy! Antihistamines block histamines, chemicals that your immune system releases when it comes into contact with an allergen. Medications like Zyrtec, Claritin, Xyzal, and Allegra are all antihistamines that are available over the counter at Frontier Pharmacy. Medications that work for some people may not work for others- everybody is different, so experiment! Benadryl can also help to knock allergy symptoms out, but can make you drowsy and should not be taken regularly. Nasal sprays and eye drops can also help calm symptoms.
Do animals get allergies too?
Thank you for your concern. Yes we do! If you notice us itching or scratching, or coughing & wheezing, please take us to the vet. Allergy symptoms can sometimes get confused for other ailments, and it's important to figure out what's going on so we can get some treatment too! Please don't feed us human medications, though, because they can have additives that can hurt us. I, myself, have seasonal allergies and maybe even an allergy to beef flavor. No more beef treats for me :( Woof!
Well, that's all I got for today. Come on in and see us at Frontier, if you have any other questions. Dr. Mel taught me everything I know!
Sincerely,
Simon