OTC - hayfever

Question 1

Symptoms?

Answer 1

• itchy, watery eyes: allergic conjunctivitis
• nasal symptoms: runny, itchy nose, squeezing, nasak congestion
• perennial rhinitis = all year round, e.g. house dust mites
• hayfever = seasonal; when pollen count is high

Question 2

Referral criteria?

Answer 2

• chest tightness, wheezing, SOB, cough (acute asthma attack?)
• purulent conjunctivitis (eye infection?)
• painful ear/sinuses (secondary infection?)

Question 3

OTC products?

Answer 3

ANTIHISTAMINES
- acrivastine (benadryl) 12-65yrs TDS
- cetirizine 6+ tabs 2+ liquid OD
- loratatdine 2+ OD
- chlorphenamine (piriton) 6+ tabs 1+ liquid
- promethazine hcl (phenergan) 5+ tabs 2+ liquid
s/es = more sedative and anticholinergic effects in older

STEROID NASAL SPRAYS 18+

• reduces inflammation of nasal passages
• fluticasone (pirinase)
• beclometason (beconase)

EYE DROPS

• relieves watery, itchy, irritated eyes
• sodium cromoglicate (opticrom)
• xylometazoline/antazoline (otrivine antisitin)

NASAL DECONGESTANTS
- short term relief from nasal congestion

Question 4

Advice?

Answer 4

• control allergen exposure

HAYFEVER:

• close windows, stay indoors when pollen is high
• use ‘wrap around’ sunglasses
• avoid grassy fields, parks and gardens

PERENNIAL ALLERGIC RHINITIS

• exclude pets from areas of the house e.g. bedroom
• acaricide sprays kill house mites
• strict bedroom cleaning regime