Spring in Sylvan Lake is a beautiful time of year.
The snow starts melting, the days get longer, and people finally start getting outside again.
But for a lot of people, spring also brings something else.
Allergies.
If you’ve been sneezing more than usual, waking up with a stuffed nose, or dealing with itchy eyes, you’re not alone. Spring allergies are very common in Central Alberta, and they can make you feel miserable even when you’re not actually “sick.”
The good news is that allergy symptoms are treatable, and you don’t have to just suffer through them.
Why Spring Allergies Hit So Hard in Sylvan Lake
Once the weather warms up, trees and plants start releasing pollen. Windy days can also stir up dust and other irritants.
Even if you don’t have allergies every year, spring can still trigger symptoms depending on what’s in the air at the time.
A lot of people in Sylvan Lake notice allergies more when they’re:
- Working in the yard
- Walking near the lake or trails
- Playing sports outside
- Spending more time outdoors with kids
And if you have asthma or sensitive lungs, seasonal allergies can sometimes make breathing feel harder too.
Allergy Symptoms vs. a Cold: How to Tell the Difference
Spring allergies and colds can feel similar, especially at the beginning.
Here’s a simple way to tell them apart.
Common Allergy Symptoms
Allergies often cause:
- Sneezing
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Runny nose (often clear)
- Stuffy nose
- Post-nasal drip (mucus in the throat)
- Mild cough (from throat irritation)
Allergy symptoms usually stick around as long as the trigger is in the air. They can last for weeks.
Common Cold Symptoms
A cold is more likely to include:
- Sore throat
- Body aches
- Fever (sometimes)
- Thicker mucus
- Feeling tired or run down
Colds usually improve within about a week.
What You Can Do at Home for Spring Allergies
If your symptoms are mild, you can often get relief with a few simple steps at home.
Try these first:
- Keep windows closed on windy days
- Shower after being outside (especially before bed)
- Change your pillowcase more often
- Wash your hands and face when you come in
- Use a saline nasal spray to rinse out irritants
Even small changes like these can make a big difference.
What Allergy Medications Actually Help
There are a lot of allergy products out there, and it can get confusing fast.
The right option depends on your symptoms.
Some people need help with sneezing and runny nose. Others are more bothered by congestion or itchy eyes.
Common allergy treatment options include:
- Daily allergy tablets
- Nasal sprays for congestion
- Eye drops for itchy, watery eyes
- Decongestants (short-term use only)
If you’re not sure what to pick, it’s worth asking before grabbing something random off the shelf.
When You Should Talk to a Pharmacist in Sylvan Lake
If you’ve tried allergy meds in the past and they didn’t work, it doesn’t mean you’re stuck.
Sometimes it’s just the wrong product, the wrong dose, or the wrong timing.
You should talk to a pharmacist if:
- Your symptoms are lasting longer than a week or two
- You’re waking up stuffed every morning
- You’re not sleeping well because of congestion
- You have asthma or breathing issues
- You’re buying allergy meds for a child
- You’re already taking other prescriptions
We can help you choose something that fits your symptoms and is safe for you.
Sinus Pressure and Headaches: When It Might Be More Than Allergies
Allergies can cause sinus pressure, especially if your nose stays blocked for days.
But if your symptoms change, you may want to get checked.
Signs it might be more than allergies include:
- Facial pain that keeps getting worse
- Thick yellow or green mucus for several days
- Fever
- A sore throat that’s getting worse
- Symptoms that last more than 10 days without improving
If you’re unsure, it’s always okay to ask. It’s better to catch problems early.
How to Make Allergy Season Easier This Year
Spring allergies can be frustrating, but most people can get good relief with the right plan.
A few helpful habits are:
- Start allergy treatment early (before symptoms get severe)
- Stay consistent with your medication
- Avoid outdoor air triggers when possible
- Ask for help picking the right option
You don’t need to feel wiped out every spring.
Need Help With Allergies? We’re Here in Sylvan Lake
If spring allergies are slowing you down, come talk to us.
At Sylvan Lake Pharmacy, we can help you figure out what’s causing your symptoms and recommend safe options to help you breathe easier.
Whether you’re dealing with itchy eyes, sinus pressure, or nonstop sneezing, you don’t have to guess your way through it.
We’re here to help.