Pharmacist's Guide to Allergy Season in New Brunswick | Ultra Care Pharmacy

Written By Ahmed Ahmed

By Dr. John , Pharm.D.

Lead Pharmacist, Ultra Care Pharmacy, New Brunswick

Here in New Brunswick, the changing seasons are something we look forward to. But as a pharmacist located just a stone's throw from Robert Wood Johnson Hospital, I know that for many of our neighbors, the beauty of spring blossoms and late summer breezes brings a familiar dread: allergy season.  

The constant sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion can make it difficult to enjoy our beautiful local parks or even just a walk down George Street. The allergy aisle itself can be a source of confusion. Which medication is best? Will it make me drowsy? Do I need a spray or a pill?

My goal is to provide a clear, clinically-backed guide to help you navigate this year's allergy season with confidence. You don't have to simply endure the symptoms. With the right strategy, you can find effective relief and get back to your life.

What's Included in This Guide:

  • New Brunswick's Allergy Calendar: Identifying the key pollen triggers in our area, season by season.

  • A Pharmacist's Breakdown of OTC Medications: Understanding your options and how to choose the right one for your symptoms.

  • Lifestyle Tips for Reducing Pollen Exposure: Simple, practical steps to minimize your allergy symptoms at home.

  • Knowing When to See a Doctor: Recognizing the signs that your allergies may require professional medical advice.

1. New Brunswick's Allergy Calendar: Know Your Triggers

In Central New Jersey, different plants release pollen at different times. Knowing the timeline helps you prepare.  

  • Spring (Late February – May): Tree Pollen. This is the first and often most intense wave. Trees common to our area like oak, birch, maple, and cedar release fine, wind-blown pollen that can cause significant symptoms.  

  • Summer (May – August): Grass Pollen. As tree pollen wanes, grasses like timothy, rye, and bentgrass begin to pollinate. This season often peaks in June and can be especially troublesome during outdoor activities.  

  • Fall (August – October): Weed Pollen. Ragweed is the main culprit in the fall. Its pollen is a potent allergen and can travel for miles, causing severe symptoms for many until the first frost.  

2. A Pharmacist's Guide to Over-the-Counter (OTC) Relief

Choosing the right medication is key to effective relief. Here’s how I advise my patients at Ultra Care Pharmacy.  

Oral Antihistamines

These are the go-to for sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. They work by blocking the histamine your body releases during an allergic reaction.

  • Non-Drowsy (Second Generation): I almost always recommend starting with these for daily management. They are effective for 24 hours and are much less likely to cause sleepiness. Look for active ingredients like Loratadine (Claritin®), Cetirizine (Zyrtec®), and Fexofenadine (Allegra®).  

  • Older Antihistamines (First Generation): This includes Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®). While effective, it causes significant drowsiness and is better suited for severe, short-term reactions or to help with sleep when symptoms are disruptive at night.  

Nasal Steroid Sprays

For persistent nasal congestion, these are often the most effective treatment available. They work by reducing inflammation directly in your nasal passages.  

  • How to Use Them: These sprays do not provide instant relief. For them to work, you must use them daily. It can take several days to a week of consistent use to feel the full benefit.

  • Examples: Fluticasone (Flonase®), Triamcinolone (Nasacort®), Budesonide (Rhinocort®).  

Decongestants

These provide short-term relief for a stuffy nose.

  • Oral Decongestants: Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed®) is kept behind the pharmacy counter. A critical note: If you have high blood pressure or a heart condition, you must speak with a doctor or pharmacist before taking these, as they can increase blood pressure.

  • Nasal Decongestant Sprays: Oxymetazoline (Afrin®) works quickly but should never be used for more than three days in a row. Overuse can cause severe "rebound" congestion.  

3. Lifestyle Tips for Reducing Pollen Exposure

Medication is only part of the solution. Reducing your contact with pollen can make a huge difference.  

  • Monitor Pollen Counts: Check local weather apps or websites for the daily pollen forecast in the New Brunswick area and limit outdoor activities on high-pollen days.  

  • Create a “Pollen-Free” Zone: Keep windows in your home and car closed. Use an air conditioner with a clean filter.

  • Wash It Off: After being outside, shower and change your clothes to remove pollen from your skin and hair.

  • Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses to act as a physical barrier against pollen.

4. When to See a Doctor

While we can manage most seasonal allergies with OTC products, it’s important to seek medical advice if :  

  • Your symptoms aren't improving after a week or two of consistent OTC treatment.

  • You experience wheezing or shortness of breath, which could be a sign of asthma.

  • Your allergies are significantly impacting your sleep or daily activities.

  • You have other health conditions, like heart disease or high blood pressure, and need guidance on which medications are safe for you.

At Ultra Care Pharmacy, your health is our priority. If you’re struggling to find relief, please come in and speak with us. We can help you review your options and find a solution that works for you.  

Ahmed Ahmed