Spring is just around the corner, bringing warmer weather, blooming flowers, and unfortunately, allergy season. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you may already be dreading the sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion that come with it. But did you know that preparing ahead of time can help reduce the severity of your symptoms? Here’s what you need to know to get ready before allergy season peaks.

Why Are Allergies Getting Worse?

Recent studies show that allergy seasons are becoming longer and more intense due to climate change. Rising temperatures and increased carbon dioxide levels are leading to higher pollen production, making symptoms more severe and lasting longer. This means it’s more important than ever to have a proactive approach to managing allergies.

Steps to Take Before Allergy Season Begins

1. Start Medication Early

Don’t wait until you’re already suffering to take allergy medications. Starting antihistamines a few weeks before peak allergy season can help build resistance and keep symptoms at bay. Our pharmacy carries a wide range of over-the-counter (OTC) allergy relief options, including:

We get it—breaking up is hard to do. But if your current pharmacy isn’t giving you the care, attention, and service you deserve, it may be time to move on. Many people stick with big chain pharmacies simply out of habit, not realizing there’s a better option. Independent pharmacies offer a personalized, stress-free experience that puts your health and convenience first.

Here are five reasons why it’s time to break up with your chain pharmacy—and why making the switch will be worth it!

1. Long Wait Times & Poor Customer Service

Ever feel like you’re just a number at your pharmacy? Long lines, unanswered phone calls, and rushed interactions can make getting your medication a frustrating experience.

✅ Independent pharmacies put YOU first. Their teams prioritize personal, friendly service, so you feel heard, valued, and taken care of—without the long wait times.

2. Lack of Personalized Care

Big chain pharmacies focus on volume, not individual care. You may see a different pharmacist every visit, and they may not take the time to answer your questions or understand your health needs.

If you’ve been hearing about more people than usual catching a stomach bug, it’s likely due to norovirus. Often called the “stomach flu” (though it’s unrelated to influenza), norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes sudden onset vomiting and diarrhea. Outbreaks tend to increase during colder months, so it’s important to know how to protect yourself and your loved ones from this uncomfortable illness—and what to do if you catch it.

What is Norovirus?

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can spread through contaminated food, water, surfaces, and even close contact with an infected person. Unlike some viruses that primarily affect the respiratory system, norovirus targets the digestive system. Its symptoms come on quickly and can last anywhere from 1 to 3 days.

Common Symptoms of Norovirus:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Low-grade fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches

While norovirus is usually not dangerous for healthy individuals, it can cause severe dehydration, especially in young children, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems.

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, millions of people promise themselves, This will be the year I finally change everything. The phrase "New Year, New Me" feels hopeful and exciting, but how often do those grand resolutions truly stick?

The truth is, completely reinventing yourself overnight isn’t realistic—or necessary. Instead, what if this year we ditched the pressure to become a whole new person and focused on small, meaningful changes that truly matter?

Here’s how to start 2025 with intention and set yourself up for lasting success.

1. Embrace Progress Over Perfection

It’s easy to look at the start of a new year as a blank slate, but life is rarely perfect. Instead of striving for unattainable ideals, commit to progress. Whether you’re aiming to exercise more, save money, or prioritize self-care, remind yourself that small steps add up over time.

For example:

• Rather than saying, I’ll work out every single day, try, I’ll exercise twice a week to start.

• Instead of vowing to never spend on takeout again, begin with, I’ll cook dinner at home three nights a week.

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