Korean Job Discussion Forums

sallymonster · Joined: 06 Feb 2010 Location: Seattle area

Is anyone else having allergy symptoms right now? I am, but it's September, and I usually have symptoms anywhere between April-July.

Also, are there any decent over-the-counter allergy meds here? Particularly the kind that don't make you drowsy? FYI, I've tried Clairitin (not Clairitin D) in the US but it didn't work for me. Or should I see a doctor and try to get a prescription for something?

drk76 · Joined: 15 Dec 2009 Location: Seoul

Ya me too! Back in Canada I never had any problems with allergies. But when I got go Korea for the first time in September 2 years ago I was sneezing a lot and had itchy eyes and itchy nose.

I've been noticing it again, especially today. Anyone know why or what it is?
I find it odd I have had no problems in Canada now to have allergies in Seoul.

pkang0202 · Joined: 09 Mar 2007

Over the counter allergy med is Cetrizine (aka Zyrtec). It does make you a little drowsy, but no where as drowsy as Benedryl. I've taken it before and the drowsiness wasn't noticeable.

For prescription, you can get Allegra or Claritin. They shoudl be the same price.

They don't sell the -D variety (pseudoephedrine included). You would have to ask for Pseudoephedrine separately.

drk76 · Joined: 15 Dec 2009 Location: Seoul

I just read on Wikipedia that Hay Fever + Polluted air.... well you can read for yourself.

"Particulate matter in polluted air and chemicals such as chlorine and detergents, which can normally be tolerated, can greatly aggravate the condition."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allergic_rhinitis

Seoul Strikes again! Yellow dust season was enough for me, now this!

le-paul · Joined: 07 Apr 2009 Location: dans la chambre

ive had the same problem recently too. However, Im living in daegu.
It is odd isnt it this time of year...
I use cetirizine cos its a good all round anti-histamine. It helps alot with mosquito bites too

atwood · Joined: 26 Dec 2009

Yes. You'll do better with a nasal spray such as Flonase or Aba-mist than you will with pills. Get a prescription.

Epuhnee · Joined: 22 Apr 2010

I too am having itchy eyes and a really itchy nose. I don't normally have allergy problems. Funny that I found this topic on here cause I was just looking online for reasons as to why it could be and I'm thinking maybe it's because of dust mites?