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Feel Better on GLP-1s: Tips to Reduce Side Effects and Stay Healthy

Tips to reduce side effects and stay healthy while on GLP-1 Medication

GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1) medications are increasingly being used to help manage type 2 diabetes and support medically supervised weight loss. Often known by their brand names, such as Ozempic®/Wegovy®/Rybelsus® (semaglutide), Victoza®/Saxenda® (liraglutide) and Mounjaro®/Zepbound® (tirzepatide), these prescription medications improve blood sugar control, as well as heart, kidney, and liver health. GLP-1 medications work by mimicking a natural gut hormone that slows how quickly food leaves your stomach. This signals your brain to feel full, reducing appetite and overall food intake. However, many patients experience side effects from these medications. While each person’s experience is different, most side effects are mild and can often be managed with lifestyle measures.

Stomach-related issues, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, and indigestion, are the most commonly reported side effects of GLP-1 medications. These side effects usually occur when starting treatment or when the dose is increased. They happen because the medication changes how the body processes food, and, for most people, they improve or resolve over time. Other possible side effects can include hair loss, fatigue, and weakness. These side effects are often related to nutrient deficiencies associated with food choices and with eating less food overall. See below for tips to manage each type of side effect.

MANAGING GLP-1 SIDE EFFECTS – PHARMACIST GUIDE FOR PATIENTS
Side effect	What you can do?
Nausea	Avoid strong smells for at least 30 minutes after taking your medication. Consider eating foods or crackers that contain mint or ginger until nausea subsides. Try going outside for fresh air to ease nausea.
Vomiting	Eat smaller sized meals, but eat more frequently. Stay hydrated throughout the day.
Diarrhea	Stay hydrated by drinking water. Until diarrhea resolves: – Eat easily digestible foods such as broths, carrots, plain crackers, and plain rice. – Avoid high fibre foods, as well as dairy, coffee, alcohol, high- sugar or high-fat foods and foods that are very hot or cold.
Constipation	Ensure you are staying well hydrated. Consider increasing dietary fibre from food sources (e.g., legumes, whole grains, dark leafy greens) or from supplements (e.g., psyllium husk supplements). Stay physically active (recommend 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity).
Heartburn, acid reflux, bloating and/or indigestion	Eat smaller but more frequent meals. Avoid triggers, such as spicy, high-fat, or fried foods. Consider reducing acidic foods, such as tomatoes and citrus fruits.
Hair loss, fatigue	Try eating more nutrient-dense foods (e.g., fruits/vegetables, whole grains, beans/legumes, unsalted nuts). Ask your pharmacist for recommendations for multivitamins or supplements.
Muscle weakness	Ensure you are consuming enough healthy proteins (e.g., lean meat, beans, legumes, fish, eggs). Consider strength training twice weekly.

While lifestyle measures are helpful for many patients, diet and activity changes may not provide enough relief for patients dealing with more severe side effects. In these cases, you may need to adjust the dose or stop your prescribed medication, but consult your healthcare team before adjusting your medications yourself. Your London Drugs pharmacist can help you communicate with your physician to develop a personalized plan to address your concerns.

Injections

For many people, starting a GLP-1 medication is their first experience with using a self-injected medication. Your pharmacist can help teach you how to properly inject your medication and provide tips to improve comfort and reduce complications. Some of our top suggestions are listed below.

Injection Tips:

Ask your pharmacist if your medication can be injected at room temperature. Cold injections tend to sting more.
Wash your hands with soap and water before you start preparing your dose.
Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab.
Use a new needle for each injection. Confirm with your pharmacist that the needle is the correct size.
Before you inject, take a slow, deep breath in and out to relax your muscles.
If injecting to the abdomen, make sure you are injecting at least two inches away from the belly button.
Rotate injection sites to prevent scar tissue build-up from injections. (This will help reduce pain and improve efficacy.)
Dispose the used needle immediately in a proper sharps disposal container. Each needle is to be used once only. Return full containers to the pharmacy for safe disposal.

Speak to a Pharmacist

If injections are too difficult or intolerable for you, your pharmacist can talk with your healthcare team about whether an oral tablet GLP-1 medication might be right for you.

Whether you are new to GLP-1 medications or have been taking them for a while, speak to your London Drugs pharmacist for personalized advice on managing any concerns or side effects you may be experiencing. Our pharmacists have the expertise and products to help you use your medications safely and effectively. Together, we can create a plan to support your health goals.

For more information on GLP-1 management, please visit your local London Drugs pharmacist for a consultation.

Seasonal Allergy Relief: How to Reduce Stuffy Noses, Itchy Eyes & Spring Symptoms

Let’s talk allergies

What is an allergy exactly?

It’s a reaction that occurs when our immune system overreacts to something that isn’t usually harmful and causes unpleasant symptoms. There are different types of allergies, including food allergies, allergies to certain medicines, and allergies that affect the nasal passages and eyes. According to the Canadian Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Foundation, about 20% to 25% of the Canadian population has allergic rhinitis (also known as hay fever). Allergies can happen any time of the year, but airborne allergies are most common in the spring and summer when we spend more time outdoors, and there are more allergy triggers floating in the air for us to breathe in.

Rhinitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the lining of the nose. Not all rhinitis is caused by allergies, but someone with allergic rhinitis could be reacting to exposure to allergens (substances that trigger allergy symptoms) such as grass or tree pollen, ragweed, animal dander, dust mites, or mould spores. Common symptoms include an itchy nose and throat, runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, ear blockage, and sometimes watery, red, itchy eyes.

A Holistic Approach

The best way to prevent and treat airborne allergies like pollen or mould is to develop a holistic plan that includes both medications and lifestyle modifications. Don’t wait until you have symptoms to start making your plan. Start by having a consultation with your London Drugs pharmacist, who can work with you to create a plan that will help you manage your allergies and enable you to enjoy being outdoors.

Step one of your plan should be to try to identify the substances that trigger your allergy symptoms. If you cannot figure out what is causing your symptoms or if your symptoms are severe, your doctor can refer you to an allergy specialist for testing.

Step two is to determine which treatments would work best for you. Your pharmacist can help you understand what medications are available, how they work, and how to use them to get the best results.

Allergy Prevention

If your allergy is to pollen, try to limit your time outdoors when pollen counts are highest, usually between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m., and on dry, windy days. When you go inside after being outdoors, shower and change your clothes immediately to wash off the pollen that might be sticking to your skin, your hair, or your clothes. After laundering your clothes, do not hang them on an outdoor line to dry, because this will allow pollen to cling to the fabric.

Clean your home frequently and do not leave windows and doors open, as this allows pollen and other allergens to enter your home, where they can collect on carpets and furniture, exposing you to them for longer periods. Use an air conditioner and be sure to change the filter regularly and maintain it properly.

If you are allergic to indoor moulds or mildew, regularly clean surfaces where moisture collects, such as window frames, bathrooms, and bedroom corners, and keep your home’s humidity below 50%. A dehumidifier can help control moisture, limit mould and mildew growth, and reduce allergy symptoms.

Symptom Treatment

Sometimes, preventative measures are not enough to eliminate allergy symptoms. Fortunately, there are a number of medications that treat allergies in different ways. Your healthcare team can recommend products that would be best for you, but the chart below can serve as a general guide on what is available.

Antihistamines – Antihistamines block certain cells in the body from receiving histamine, a chemical released by the immune system that causes the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Corticosteroids – Corticosteroid sprays, also called glucocorticoid or steroid sprays, reduce inflammation in the nasal passages to ease allergy symptoms. When used regularly, they relieve nasal congestion and sneezing.

Leukotriene modifiers (tablets, granules) – Leukotriene modifier medications work by blocking leukotrienes – chemicals in the body that contribute to inflammation, airway narrowing, and mucus production.

Immunotherapy (tablets, injections) – Immunotherapy sublingual tablets (placed under the tongue) and allergy shots help train the immune system to become less reactive to allergens. Each dose contains a tiny amount of an allergen or mix of allergens — enough to train the immune system to recognize it, but not enough to trigger symptoms. As the dose gradually increases, the immune system becomes less reactive, and allergy symptoms improve over time.

Other ways you can help ease your discomfort from allergies include:

Saline nasal rinses – Using salt-water nasal spray or sinus rinse (such as a neti pot, rinse bottle, or nasal irrigation device) can help clear congestion and wash allergens out of your nasal passages.
Artificial tears or eye wash solutions – These can soothe dry, irritated eyes and help rinse out allergens.
Cool compress for the eyes – A clean, damp, cool washcloth placed over your eyes can reduce inflammation and itching.
Warm compress for the eyelids – A clean, damp, warm washcloth can help remove pollen from the eyelids and help soothe irritation.

LD Tip
Limiting the use of non-prescription eye drops for redness-relief is important. These products are meant for cosmetic use only, and some can cause rebound redness, where the eyes look even redder once you stop using them. Speak to a pharmacist for safer, long-term options to treat the underlying cause of your redness.

If you have any questions about seasonal allergies, allergic rhinitis, or allergic conjunctivitis (red eyes), your London Drugs pharmacists have the knowledge and experience to answer your questions and help you relieve the unpleasant symptoms. Many pharmacists can also prescribe medications to treat allergy symptoms. Ask at the pharmacy counter or visit londondrugs.com/prescribing for more information.

Love Your Heart: Follow These Tips for Preventing Heart Disease

Heart disease remains one of the leading health challenges facing Canadians today—but the good news is that many risk factors can be prevented or improved with the right knowledge and support. From understanding key health numbers to making simple lifestyle changes, here’s how you can take meaningful steps to preventing heart disease and protecting your heart.

4 Things To Know When Talking About Your Heart Health

Use this as a guide to know which facts and measurements matter in heart health.

1. Heart Health Prevalence and Facts

Heart disease is more common than most people realize. Here are a few important insights that you should understand when talking about the importance of preventing heart disease and how prevalent the condition is today.

General heart health quick facts:

Over 2.6 million Canadians are living with diagnosed heart disease.
Heart disease is Canada’s second leading cause of death, after cancer.
9 in 10 Canadians have at least one risk factor for developing heart disease.
Men are typically diagnosed 10 years earlier than women.
Many risk factors are preventable, and early screening can significantly reduce your risk.

A pharmacist can always help you make sense of these facts and known underlying risk factors.

2. Know Your Numbers: Key Indicators for Preventing Heart Disease

a) Your Blood Pressure And Target

High blood pressure is the most common preventable risk factor for heart disease and is linked to nearly half of cases worldwide. Hypertension Canada recommends the following:

Use a validated automated blood pressure monitor

Only 45% of online‑sold monitors are validated for accuracy.
90% of monitors sold in community pharmacies, including London Drugs, meet Hypertension Canada’s validation standards.
Your pharmacist can recommend the right device and teach you proper technique.

To know your blood pressure target

Most adults should aim for below 130/80 mmHg (2025 Hypertension Canada Guidelines).
Your target may vary based on age, health conditions, and your doctor’s recommendations.
If your readings are consistently high, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help manage it.

b) Know Your Sugars (A1C)

Your Hemoglobin A1C test shows your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months.

Targets:

A1C below 6.0% for people without diabetes
A1C 7.0% or lower for most people with diabetes

People with diabetes are 2–4 times more likely to develop heart disease.

Screening:

Adults over 40 should have glucose screening every 3 years.
Those at higher risk may need more frequent tests.

c) Know Your Cholesterol

Cholesterol is essential for many body functions, but too much can contribute to plaque buildup and block blood flow to the heart and brain.

Two types: LDL (“bad”) and HDL (“good”)
Chronic high cholesterol increases the risk of heart attack and stroke
Regular screening begins at age 40, or earlier if you’re high-risk

If medication is needed, your provider may prescribe treatments that reduce cholesterol production or absorption.

3. Fully Understand Your Risks: Steps to Lower Heart Disease Risk

Some risk factors can’t be changed, like age or family history—but many can. Here’s what you can focus on:

✓ Eat a balanced, heart‑healthy diet

Follow Canada’s Food Guide
Diets like Mediterranean or DASH help lower heart disease risk

✓ Move your body regularly

Aim for 150 minutes of activity per week
Include muscle‑strengthening exercises
Reduce long periods of sitting

✓ Maintain a healthy weight

Being over‑ or under‑weight increases heart disease risk. Balanced nutrition and movement help you stay within a healthy range.

✓ Prioritize sleep

Poor sleep affects blood pressure, weight, and blood sugar.
Aim for 7–9 hours nightly.

Tips:

Keep your room cool, dark, quiet
Maintain a consistent schedule
Avoid screens before bed

✓ Quit smoking

Smoking damages blood vessels and accelerates plaque buildup. Your London Drugs pharmacist can:

Help identify triggers
Build a personalized quit plan
Provide nicotine replacement and other treatments
Offer ongoing support

✓ Limit alcohol

Health Canada’s guidance states:

No amount of alcohol is risk‑free
More than 3 drinks/week increases cancer risk
More than 7 drinks/week increases heart disease and stroke risk

Reducing intake lowers your risk.

4. Know Your Healthcare Team

Your journey to preventing heart disease doesn’t have to be one you take alone. You need to use health experts too. London Drugs pharmacists partner with doctors, specialists, and other healthcare professionals to help you:

Understand your risk factors
Monitor key health numbers
Choose validated health devices
Access medications and treatment options
Stay motivated and supported

Speak with your pharmacist today to learn how we can help you protect your heart and achieve your long-term health goals.

How to Measure Your Blood Pressure at Home Accurately

Stay on top of your heart health by staying on top of your blood pressure. Monitoring at home can be easy, reliable, and incredibly helpful for you and your healthcare team. With the right device and a few simple habits, you can get consistent results that give a true picture of your heart health. Let’s break down how you can measure blood pressure accurately in the comfort of your home!

Below, we break down everything you need to know — from choosing a validated monitor to setting up the perfect testing routine.

Simple Steps for More Accurate Readings

1. Choose the Right Blood Pressure Monitor

Using a validated device is the foundation of accurate home measurements.

Pick an upper‑arm, fully automated monitor
These provide the most reliable readings and are simple to use.

Ask your pharmacist for help selecting a device
They can guide you toward models that fit your needs.

Look for the Hypertension Canada Recommended Equipment Seal
This ensures the monitor meets accuracy standards. You can also browse approved models on the Hypertension Canada website.

2. Make Sure the Cuff Fits Properly

A poorly fitted cuff can lead to inaccurate results.

Check the cuff size
Most devices include a standard medium cuff, but small, large, and extra‑large cuffs are available.

Use the markings on the cuff
They’ll help confirm if the cuff is the right size for your upper arm (not too loose or too tight).

3. Measure Blood Pressure at Consistent Times Each Day

Routine matters — try to take readings at the same time daily.

Every morning:
After using the bathroom, before breakfast, and before taking morning medications.

Every evening:
Either before dinner or a few hours afterward.

Before measuring:
Avoid smoking or tobacco products, eating, or drinking alcohol for at least 30 minutes.
Wait 1 hour after intense exercise.

4. Set Up the Right Testing Environment

Choose a quiet place where you can sit comfortably at a table.

Before you start:

Rest quietly for at least 5 minutes
Do not talk
Sit with your back supported and both feet flat on the floor
Avoid crossing your legs

Prepare your arm:

Rest it on a table, bare (no tight sleeves)
Position the cuff 2–3 cm (1 inch) above your elbow crease
Ensure the tubing runs down the inside of your arm toward the monitor
Some cuffs include a guide to align with the brachial artery
The cuff should allow two fingers to fit snugly beneath the edge
Keep the middle of the cuff at heart level (use a pillow under your arm if needed)

5. Take Your Reading

If you’ve done all the above, then you’re ready to measure blood pressure …

Start your monitor
Press the ON button and remain still.

During measurement:
Breathe normally and avoid talking.

Take two readings
Wait 1 minute between them.

Track your results
Record both readings with date and time, or use a Bluetooth‑enabled monitor with an app for automatic tracking.

Share your results regularly with your healthcare provider.

Blood Pressure Targets

For most adults, the recommended overall target is below 130/80 mmHg, based on the 2025 Hypertension Canada Guidelines.
Ask your healthcare provider what goal is appropriate for you.

Need Help Choosing a Monitor or Measuring Correctly?

Your London Drugs pharmacist can help you pick the right device, explain how to use it, and support you in managing hypertension with medications or lifestyle changes.

Winter Skin Care Tips: How to Protect Dry, Sensitive, and Eczema-Prone Skin

As the year moves on, the weather changes, and our skin care routine must change along with it. Colder weather and drier air can have a significant effect on your skin that may lead to dry, cracked skin and lips. Without proper care, this dryness can cause itching, flaking, and irritation.

The good news? You don’t have to change your entire routine or switch out every skin care product you currently use. A few simple changes can make a big difference. Here are some winter guidelines that will help you adjust your routine to be more in line with what your skin needs in the colder months.

Getting clean

Wash your face morning and night every day and after sweating, but don’t over wash it. Depending on your skin, washing once a day in the evening may be enough. Over-washing can dry out your skin. If your skin feels tight or dry right after you’ve washed your face, it could be a sign that you’re washing it too often or using the wrong product. Choose gentle, fragrance-free cleansers that are designed for the face.

Consider washing your body every other day and only using soap on key areas like groin, underarms, and feet. Limit bathing sessions to 5 to 10 minutes and use warm (not hot) water. Even though your skin is in contact with water, long hot showers and baths can draw moisture out of your skin and wash away natural oils.

Use a moisturizer

When you get out of the bath or shower, gently pat your skin dry and apply moisturizer and other products right away. This is the most effective time for your skin to absorb moisture and seal it in. You can duplicate this effect at other times by applying a thermal water spray before your other products.

Apply any medicated products or sunscreen to the skin first, directly onto clean skin; then apply a moisturizer. This ensures that active ingredients are properly absorbed and not blocked or diluted by the moisturizer.

Consider using a thicker moisturizer during cold weather, if your skin type can tolerate it. Creams, ointments, and oils are generally more moisturizing than lotions, as they form a protective barrier that helps prevent moisture loss.

The Canadian Dermatology Association recommends using moisturizers that contain ingredients such as lactic acid, urea, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone, glycerin, lanolin, mineral oil, petrolatum, or natural oils (e.g., sunflower seed oil or virgin coconut oil). However, for some people, these heavier products can increase the risk of acne breakouts or fungal infections. For help choosing skin care products that are suitable for your skin type, speak with a London Drugs pharmacist or beauty advisor.

Additional tips

Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated from the inside out.
Protect skin from cold and wind with a hat, scarf, and gloves.
Use gentle, fragrance-free soaps and cleansers for skin and laundry products.
Wear latex-free gloves for wet work or chemical exposure.
Moisturize hands after every hand wash.
Choose clothing with non-irritating fabrics made from natural fibers such as cotton or silk.
Consider using a humidifier to restore moisture in the air that is lost due to indoor heating.

Is it eczema?

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a very common chronic condition that causes itchy, red, dry, or inflamed skin. People who have this condition have patches of very dry or cracked skin on their body that can be extremely itchy, especially at night. Commonly affected areas include the face, neck, inside of the elbows, behind the knees, and on the hands and feet.

Eczema is not contagious. Its cause may be linked to genetic factors (such as family history) or to environmental triggers like weather changes, stress, allergies, or contact with irritants.

Most cases of eczema can be managed with a routine of moisturizing consistently and using medications during flareups. Creams or ointments containing hydrocortisone or betamethasone are commonly applied to the skin to reduce inflammation. Antihistamines or allergy medications may help relieve itching. For severe cases, prescription medications can be used to suppress an overactive immune response and prevent flare-ups.

Expert advice

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have persistent or long-standing dry skin. They can assess whether it may be due to your environment, a side effect from a medication, eczema, or another skin condition and recommend treatments.

In most provinces, pharmacists are now authorized to prescribe medications and treatments for eczema and can offer advice to manage your symptoms.

To learn more about pharmacist prescribing services in your province, visit londondrugs.com/prescribing or speak with a London Drugs pharmacist at any time.

Increase Your Success of Quitting Smoking Once and For All

I am often asked why I became a Certified Tobacco Educator. As a pharmacist with additional specialized training in smoking cessation, my answer is simple: the right support can help in one’s journey for quitting smoking.

I learned that nearly two-thirds of people who smoke want to quit within the next 6 months. The remaining one-third are ready to quit now if they have the right support. Knowing this motivated me to help provide the tools, education, and encouragement to people who need support on their journey.

My top recommendations for being successful when quitting smoking

Support when you need it

Without support, quitting smoking can seem overwhelming for many. Studies show that attempting to quit “cold turkey” with no additional support may only have a 3 to 7% success rate at six months. However, there are proven tools and techniques that can significantly increase your chances of success.

Meeting with a healthcare professional or participating in individual or group counselling can significantly increase your chances of quitting and staying smoke-free. One study suggests that meeting one-on-one with a healthcare professional trained in smoking cessation can triple or quadruple your chances at becoming smoke-free, even without the use of medications.

Medications

Using the right combination of evidence-based products to help you quit smoking can make the process more manageable and increase your chances of success. Your pharmacist or doctor can help you navigate the choices available.

The most common option that people are aware of is Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). NRT includes a variety of dosage forms – such as patches, gum, lozenges, inhalers, and sprays – that are supported by extensive safety data and are approved for use as smoking cessation aids. Other nicotine products like vaping and nicotine pouches may be less harmful than smoking cigarettes, but currently lack sufficient evidence as effective smoking cessation aids. However, speak to your pharmacist to learn what NRT choices are best for you.

Using NRT can double or triple your chances of quitting smoking while helping you change smoking-related habits. One of the most effective approaches is to use a combination of NRT products. This involves using a long-acting nicotine patch to provide a steady level of nicotine throughout the day to control most cravings, along with a fast-acting nicotine option like gum, lozenges, spray, or inhaler to manage strong cravings as they arise.

Be sure to read the package instructions carefully or speak with a pharmacist to ensure proper use of NRT to minimize side effects. For example, nicotine gum is not chewed like regular gum. It should be chewed a few times until the taste is strong, indicating that some nicotine has been released, then rest the gum in your cheek until the taste has faded, then chew it again. Each NRT gum is meant to be used over a 30-minute period. Chewing it faster will release more nicotine and can commonly lead to hiccups or an upset stomach.

Varenicline (Champix®) and bupropion (Zyban®) are oral prescription medications that are usually taken twice a day for smoking cessation. They work by reducing cravings for nicotine or making smoking feel less satisfying. Varenicline has evidence to increase quit success to 27% versus “cold turkey”. I hear many myths around these medications, and your pharmacist is a great person to address your concerns or the information you have heard from friends or online. In many provinces in Canada, pharmacists can also prescribe these effective medications without a visit to a doctor.

Most medications used for quitting smoking are used for 3 to 6 months. Don’t rush it. Smoking has likely been a part of your life for years, if not decades, and making sustainable changes will take time.

Consider the cost of quitting smoking

Quitting smoking can really help your wallet! In Canada, a pack of cigarettes typically costs between $15 and $25, while NRT or prescription options usually range from just $1 to $5 per day.

Additionally, most provinces offer government programs to help cover the cost of NRT, medications, or smoking cessation programs. Many private insurance plans also provide coverage for medications, and some even include counselling sessions. Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for more information.

Are you ready to quit? Or want to reduce your smoking?

Successfully quitting smoking requires a complete change in your habits and lifestyle, so starting with small changes can help you build momentum.

Even small changes can make a difference to your overall health. Try something and see how it goes!

Tobacco Tracker

Keep track of how many cigarettes you smoke and when you smoke them. This can help you notice patterns and triggers.

Change the habit

If your desire to smoke is linked to a routine, like drinking coffee, try separating the two activities.

Reduce to quit

Try giving up one cigarette at a time. Then gradually decrease the number of cigarettes you smoke per day over a period of time.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy

NRT products can be used to help you reduce your tobacco use even if you haven’t completely quit yet. Experiment with different types and flavours until you find one that works for you. For example, try using a piece of NRT gum to delay your next cigarette.

Remember:
Quitting smoking is not a test of willpower; it is a lifestyle change that requires support and tools to make it last. Your London Drugs pharmacist is a good place to start. We can help you with a personalized Quit Plan and support you with further advice whenever you need it. We’re here to help you on your quit journey.

Written by: Madellyn Pauls, London Drugs Pharmacist and Certified Tobacco Educator in Lethbridge, AB

Are you looking for more tips on quitting smoking from a pharmacist?

Asthma: Not Just a Childhood Condition

Asthma remains a common and often under-recognized respiratory condition, affecting people of all ages. It affects about 4.6 million Canadians, including 900,000 children under 19 years old. In Canada, more than 300 people are diagnosed with asthma every day and about 300 asthma-related deaths are reported annually.

Adults may experience symptoms throughout their lives or develop them for the first time in adulthood. Factors such as exposure to certain fumes, hormonal changes, and obesity may contribute to who develops asthma later in life.

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, and wheezing. This is known as an asthma exacerbation, or more commonly, an asthma attack.

An asthma attack can last from minutes to days and is a leading cause of hospital visits and missed time from school or work. If left untreated, severe attacks can be life threatening. Although there is no cure for asthma yet, it can be managed with proper treatment.

Asthma attacks can be triggered by allergies such as dust mites, pollen, mold, or pet dander. They may also be caused by smoke, cold air, pollution, chemicals, intense emotions, or exercise.

Who is at risk of asthma?

Researchers have not determined an exact cause of asthma, but there are several risk factors that can lead to the disease. Many patients are first diagnosed in childhood, but it is also common to be diagnosed as an adult.

Some known risk factors for asthma include:

Family history: Kids of parents with asthma are 2.5 to 3 times more likely to have it.
Allergies: Certain allergies that affect the nose and eyes increase asthma risk.
Premature birth: Being born before 36 weeks increases risk of developing asthma later in life.
Childhood lung infections: Certain lung infections at an early age increase risk of asthma.
Occupational exposures: Chemicals, dust, and fumes can cause adult-onset asthma.
Hormones: Women are more prone to asthma after menopause.
Air Quality: Smoking, exhaust fumes, and pollution can trigger asthma.
Obesity: Extra weight around the chest and inflammation can worsen asthma risk.

Exercise-Induced Asthma (EIA)

Some people experience asthma symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath within 5 to 10 minutes of exercising, forcing them to stop.

Our airways function best with warm, moist air. Typically, air enters our body through the nose where it is warmed and moistened before it reaches the lungs. However, during exercise with heavy breathing, cold and dry air can enter the airways through the mouth which can trigger asthma attacks. Allergens and air pollution can also worsen symptoms in people with asthma.

For those who experience exercise-induced asthma, doctors may prescribe inhalers to use before or during exercise to help open the airways and reduce inflammation. Warming up before exercise, cooling down afterwards, and choosing indoor exercise when its cold outside or if air quality is poor can also help prevent symptoms.

How can we help?

Your London Drugs pharmacist can help identify symptoms consistent with asthma, answer your questions and concerns, and can recommend follow up with a doctor if needed. They can also assist you in managing prescribed medications, teach you how to use inhaled medications correctly, and provide advice on preventing and treating asthma attacks. Ask us about simple to use peak flow meters to monitor how well your lungs are working, or spacer devices to help deliver inhaled medications more effectively to your lungs.

Don’t be left without medication. Talk to your pharmacist if you have run out of medication or if it is expired. They can often conveniently extend or refill your prescription without contacting your doctor.