by Danielle Dresden

The phrase "managing allergies" usually refers to addressing an individual's symptoms. However, in many pharmacy departments today, supervisors now try to manage the way we manage allergies.

Increasing expense and growing frequency drive the mounting concern. Allergies and asthma cost the United States $18 billion a year in medical care and are responsible for 4 million missed school and work days, according to "Medscape" and "OB GYN News."

Up to 40 million U.S. residents suffer from allergies and those numbers are likely to increase. A July, 2004, study in "Allergy" found the risk of hay fever was more than double for those who lived with someone who already had it -- and the risk grew the longer people lived together.

Some say this data suggests allergies are a lifestyle issue. A report from "Science News," which found that allergies among Greenlanders doubled between 1987 and 1998, as more native people adopted Western ways, might also support this position.

Whether poor ventilation, more carpets or less exposure to micro-organisms in childhood is behind the growth in allergies, the symptoms seem here to stay and those with symptoms are likely to find their way to pharmacists.

Train staff to educate and counsel patients on effective and economical ways to deal with allergies. For many allergy sufferers, drugs recently switched to non-prescription status can be the most cost-effective option. A study by Kline & Co., a market research company, revealed a $26.44 savings each time a patient opted for an OTC allergy drug, skipping the doctor's visit and the prescription medication.

Some allergy patients tend not to take medication until symptoms appear -- which hampers the effectiveness of their treatment. Encourage staff to help patients get the most out of their medication, by understanding when and how to take it. Work with employees on ways to encourage patient compliance, such as complimentary tissues with each refill.

Self-medication is prevalent among allergy sufferers, so make sure staff are very thorough when asking patients what they're taking, including things patients might not consider medications, like herbs, vitamins and homeopathic remedies.

Because of their training, pharmacists may first think of controlling allergies through medication, but make sure other options aren't ignored. These include gadgets, like air filters, avoidance tactics, like staying clear of smoky environments, and housekeeping practices, like taking a shower and washing clothes after being in the outdoors.

Living with allergies isn't easy, but by emphasizing and supporting your staff's counseling function, you can help patients manage well.

Source: www.pharmacyweek.com