Page 124 - Community pharmcy practice E-book 2025

02/11/2025, 00:29

• Emphasise allergen avoidance steps (pet care, bedding, dust mite cover, indoor air quality)
and realistic expectations (we can reduce but not always eliminate exposure).
• Encourage keeping symptom/allergen diary: what worsened symptoms (time of day,
exposures) to guide management.
• Review OTC product selection: for example choose second-gen non-sedating
antihistamines if need to drive/work; caution decongestants if high BP, cardiac disease,
pregnancy.
• Advise adherence: intranasal steroids take some days to reach full effect; don’t stop once
symptoms improve.
• Monitor for red flags: new onset, worsening despite therapy, associated asthma flare-ups,
or suspected sinus/ear complications → refer.
• Remind patient about side-effects: e.g., intranasal steroids may cause nasal irritation or
minor bleeding (spray away from septum).

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