Hay Fever & Seasonal Allergy Treatment at the Pharmacy in Waterloo

Runny nose, itchy eyes, non-stop sneezing — if seasonal allergies are making you miserable, Boardwalk Pharmacy has you covered. Our pharmacists in Waterloo are licensed under Ontario's Minor Ailments Program to assess and treat allergic rhinitis (hay fever and seasonal allergies) — free with OHIP, no appointment needed.

What Is Allergic Rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal passages caused by an allergic reaction to airborne triggers. It's extremely common — affecting roughly 20–25% of Canadians. It comes in two main forms:

• Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) — triggered by outdoor allergens like tree pollen (spring), grass pollen (summer), and ragweed (fall)
• Perennial allergic rhinitis — year-round symptoms triggered by indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and mould

Symptoms typically include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing, often in bursts
• Itchy nose, eyes, throat, or ears
• Watery, red, or swollen eyes
• Postnasal drip and sore throat
• Fatigue (from disrupted sleep and constant symptoms)

How Your Pharmacist Can Help

Under Ontario's Minor Ailments Program, Boardwalk Pharmacy pharmacists can assess your allergy symptoms and prescribe or recommend effective treatments, including intranasal corticosteroid sprays (e.g., fluticasone, mometasone), antihistamines, and combination therapies.

Your pharmacist will:

• Review your symptoms, triggers, and medical history
• Assess whether your symptoms are seasonal or year-round
• Prescribe or recommend the most effective nasal spray, antihistamine, or combination treatment
• Counsel you on allergen avoidance strategies
• Monitor your response and adjust treatment as needed
• Refer you to an allergist if your condition warrants further investigation

Waterloo's Allergy Season

The Waterloo Region sees significant pollen seasons — tree pollens peak in April–May, grasses peak in June–July, and ragweed hits hard in August–September. Getting treated early, before your symptoms peak, leads to the best results. Don't wait until you're miserable — come see us at the start of allergy season.

OHIP-Covered — Walk In Any Time

The pharmacist assessment is fully covered by OHIP for Ontario residents. Walk in to Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo any time during our pharmacy hours — no appointment needed. Get assessed and treated the same day so you can get back to enjoying the outdoors.