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Our pharamcists explain more about the various types of allergies, how an allergist or immunologist can help, and when it may be time to see one.

When to See a Healthcare Specialist for Allergy Treatment

There’s a wide spectrum of allergy conditions, from mild seasonal allergies to more severe symptoms that persist year round. It makes sense, then, that there is also a spectrum of allergy treatment options.

Some people are able to manage mild symptoms with occasional use of over-the-counter allergy medications, including oral antihistamines like Claritin®, Allegra®, and Zyrtec®; decongestants like Afrin® and Sudafed®; and nasal corticosteroids like Flonase® and Nasacort®. But if allergies impact your focus at work or school, or prevent you from living a more active life, you may consider consulting with a healthcare professional about treatment options.

In addition to your primary care provider, there are specialists with extensive training in allergy treatment such as allergists and immunologists. They can help you better understand the cause of your symptoms so that you can determine a more effective allergy treatment plan. Below, we explain more about the various types of allergies, how an allergist or immunologist can help, and when it may be time to see one.

There are many types of allergies, but all are produced by a reaction in your immune system. In people with allergies, the immune system interprets substances like dust, pollen, and pet dander as harmful. The immune system then kicks into defense mode, producing antibodies to attack the allergen, which in turn causes symptoms such as wheezing, sneezing, and itching in the eyes, nose, ears, or mouth.

There is often a hereditary component to allergies, so you may be more likely to develop allergies if you have a family history of the condition. While many allergies begin during childhood, they may also occur for the first time in adulthood. Some childhood allergies improve with time, but they can also reappear later in life after years without symptoms.

Here are some of the most common allergy conditions. 

Allergic rhinitis is a broad term for any sinus-related allergic reaction. Symptoms generally include watery eyes; itchy eyes, nose, ears, and mouth; runny or stuffy nose; sneezing; puffy eyes; and post-nasal drip. This reaction can be triggered by a range of allergens and may occur year round or seasonally.

Pollen and outdoor mold typically trigger seasonal allergic rhinitis — sometimes referred to as hay fever — while dust mites, pet dander, and indoor molds can trigger these symptoms at any time of year in certain individuals.

Asthma is a lung condition in which the airways narrow and become inflamed, making it difficult to breathe. Coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath are some of the most common symptoms. As with allergies, there’s a wide spectrum of severity. For some individuals, asthma symptoms are an occasional annoyance, but for others they can be life-threatening.

Allergy-triggered asthma, which is relatively common in children, occurs when allergens affect the lungs and lead to asthma symptoms. Allergy-triggered asthma can result from allergens linked to both seasonal and year round allergies.

If you or your child suffer from allergy-induced asthma, allergy medications will likely be a part of your asthma treatment plan, but they are not a substitute for asthma medication. In addition to consulting an allergist, speak with your primary care provider as soon as asthma symptoms appear so that you can find the best treatment plan.

Many common skin conditions, including eczema and hives, are an allergic reaction caused by various triggers, including pet dander and certain types of medication or food. Part of an allergist’s role is to help you determine if a skin condition is allergy-related. A dermatologist can also help you understand the underlying cause of your skin condition and recommend treatment options.

For some individuals with severe allergies, exposure to an allergen can become life-threatening. This is called anaphylaxis, an extreme allergic reaction to food, medication, or venom. Bee stings or foods like peanuts and tree nuts are among the most common triggers of anaphylaxis.

If you have been diagnosed with anaphylaxis, your healthcare provider will likely prescribe epinephrine to use in the event of an emergency. This medication prevents anaphylactic shock from becoming life-threatening.

When should I see an allergist or immunologist?

Allergy and immunology is an area of medicine focused on the treatment of conditions related to the immune system, including allergies. Allergists and immunologists are specialists in diagnosing allergy conditions and asthma. (In the United States, the two roles are essentially interchangeable.) They can help identify the specific triggers of your allergy symptoms and prescribe the most effective medication for your allergies. To be certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology, these specialists must complete two or three years of study in allergy and immunology in addition to a three-year residency after earning their medical degree.

If your allergy symptoms persist after trying over-the-counter medications and consulting with your primary care provider, it may be time to see an allergist or immunologist for more lasting relief. And if you have used over-the-counter medications for longer than several weeks to treat allergy symptoms, you may also benefit from consulting a specialist, as these medications aren’t meant for long-term use and become less effective with time

Understanding the source of your allergy symptoms is key to effective treatment, and allergists and immunologists are able to help you identify your trigger(s). They may recommend a skin test in which they will lightly prick or scratch your finger with a small amount of a suspected allergen, like pollen. Then, they can watch how your body absorbs that substance to determine if you have an allergic reaction. They may also use a blood test to determine what’s triggering your allergies.

Avoiding allergens as much as possible plays a big role in controlling symptoms. However, if you are unable to avoid the substance that triggers your allergies, a specialist can recommend treatment options, including prescription medications and immunotherapy.

It may be possible to train your body to become less allergic to a specific trigger through a process known as immunotherapy. In this preventative treatment, a doctor will gradually give you larger doses of the substance that triggers your allergies. As you become exposed to larger amounts of the allergen, your immune system will become less sensitive to it. Ideally, this will help you experience fewer allergy symptoms when you encounter the allergen in the future.

There are several types of immunotherapy, including allergy shots and sublingual tablets, which are placed under the tongue. This treatment approach is most effective if a doctor has isolated one or more specific allergens as the source of your symptoms, which is why testing is so important.

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Alto makes it as simple as possible to follow the treatment your doctor recommends. Our team of patient care pharmacists will work with your doctor to get you the allergy or asthma medications you're prescribed at the best price, and we’re happy to answer your questions about medication side effects or any other health concern. Reach out any time through phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in-app messaging.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

All third party trademarks (including logos and icons) referenced by Alto Pharmacy remain the property of their respective owners. Unless specifically identified as such, Alto’s use of third party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship or endorsement between Alto and the owners of these trademarks.

In recent years, dry powder inhalers have become increasingly common in asthma treatment thanks to their ease of use and portable size. Read on to learn how to use a dry powder inhaler correctly.

What to Know About Dry Powder Inhalers

Medications play a critical role in managing asthma by reducing the frequency and severity of symptoms and allowing for a more active life. There are a variety of asthma medications that your healthcare provider may prescribe for you, including quick-relief medications to treat acute symptoms and long-term control medications to prevent flare-ups.

Most asthma medications are taken via an inhaler. There are three types of inhalers used for asthma treatment: hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) inhalers, sometimes referred to as metered dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers (DPIs), and the less commonly used respimat inhalers.

In recent years, dry powder inhalers have become increasingly common in asthma treatment thanks to their ease of use and portable size, which makes them convenient to use if symptoms flare up unexpectedly. As with any device, proper use of your DPI is essential to receiving the full benefits of your medication, and it’s important to be mindful of several differences between DPIs and other inhalers. Read on to learn how to use a dry powder inhaler correctly.

A dry powder inhaler is a handheld device that allows you to inhale your asthma medication in the form of a dry powder. It is a breath-activated device, so it will activate and release your medication automatically as soon as you start inhaling. Unlike HFA inhalers, which use a chemical propellant to deliver a dose of your medication in aerosol form, DPIs do not contain any ingredient other than the medication itself.

Your doctor may prescribe a DPI because of  dosage reliability. With an HFA inhaler, it may be difficult to know that you’ve received the entire metered dose. In contrast, most DPIs are specifically designed with a spinning technology that ensures you receive the full dose of your medication. DPIs also typically give you a visual indication that the full dose has been delivered. For example, the Advair Diskus® has a built-in dose counter which updates after each use.

If your doctor prescribes your medication to be administered with a DPI, your prescription will include both the DPI device and the medication. Commonly prescribed DPI medications include the Advair Diskus®, the Pulmicort Flexhaler®, and the Asmanex Twisthaler®.

How to use a dry powder inhaler correctly

Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how to use a dry powder inhaler correctly.

Remove the cap from your dry powder inhaler if there is one.

Load a dose of medicine, if needed. Some DPIs have a supply of medicine in them already while others require you to load each dose of medication. Follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.

Tilt your head back and breathe out to empty your lungs as much as possible. Make sure to hold your inhaler away from your mouth while you exhale, as breathing into your inhaler can blow out some of the medicine.

Place the mouthpiece of your inhaler in your mouth. Close your lips tightly around the opening so that the medicine cannot get out.

Inhale quickly and deeply for 2-3 seconds. Since DPIs are breath-activated, it’s important to breathe deep and fast so that the right dose of medicine is triggered.

Once you have inhaled the powder, remove the inhaler from your mouth and hold your breath to let the medication settle into your lungs. Then exhale slowly.

If your doctor has prescribed more than one dose of your medication, wait about a minute before taking your next dose.

If you are using an inhaled corticosteroid, gargle and rinse your mouth afterward with water to prevent throat irritation and oral yeast infections, two potential side effects of this medication class.

You may not necessarily taste or feel the dry powder after taking your medication, but as long as you’ve followed the steps above, you will receive the full dose.

It’s normal to have questions when starting a new medication, and our team of pharmacists is here to offer guidance. We can walk you through the steps of using your inhaler, discuss potential side effects, and answer any other questions you may have. In addition, we offer free, same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our app to make it as simple as possible to stay on track with managing your asthma.

To learn more or get started, reach out any time through in-app messaging or by phone at 1-800-874-5881. 

Hypercoagulation, or excessive blood clotting, can be treated with anticoagulants — a class of medications that reduce the blood’s ability to form new clots and prevent existing clots from growing.

How Anticoagulants Prevent Blood Clots From Forming

Blood clotting to stop bleeding, or coagulation, is a normal part of the body’s healing process after a cut or other type of injury. However, excessive blood clotting, or hypercoagulation, may occur when clots form too easily while blood moves normally through the body. Hypercoagulation can be serious: when a blood clot develops in the arteries, it may lead to a stroke, heart attack, leg pain, or other serious health complications.

Some people are born with a tendency to form blood clots, while in other cases the condition may develop as a result of surgery, trauma, a medical condition, or prescription medication usage.

Medical conditions that may lead to hypercoagulation include:

Atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rate condition 

Heart attack, congestive heart failure, stroke, and other illnesses that lead to less physical activity

Antiphospholipid syndrome, a condition in which the immune system mistakenly creates antibodies that make your blood more likely to clot

Previous history of deep vein thrombosis — typically a blood clot in the deep veins in your legs — or pulmonary embolism — a blood clot in the arteries in your lungs

Bone marrow and blood diseases including polycythemia vera, a blood cancer that thickens your blood, and essential thrombocytosis, a rare disorder in which your body produces too many platelets

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, a rare blood condition in which your immune system attacks red blood cells

Nephrotic syndrome, a kidney disorder in which the urine contains too much protein

Medications that may lead to hypercoagulation include:

Supplemental estrogen, including birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy

Certain cancer medications such as tamoxifen, a breast cancer medication that activates estrogen in bone and liver cells; bevacizumab, a medication used to treat a variety of cancers and which blocks a protein responsible for blood vessel production; thalidomide, a medication used to treat a variety of cancers of which blood clots are a known side effect, particularly for patients 65 and older; and lenalidomide, a medication used to treat certain blood cancers of which blood clots are a known side effect

With many of these medications, the risk of developing blood clots is low, but individuals with a previous history of blood clots or an underlying condition linked to hypercoagulation face a greater risk. 

If you are prescribed one of these medications, be sure to inform your doctor of your medical history, including any other medications you currently take, and ask about the potential benefits and risks of using them. And if you experience any of the primary signs of a blood clot — shortness of breath, chest pain, or leg pain or swelling — contact your doctor immediately.

Hypercoagulation can be treated with anticoagulants, a class of medications that reduce the blood’s ability to form new clots and prevent existing clots from growing. These medications are primarily prescribed when a blood clot develops in a vein or artery or as a preventative measure for people who face a higher risk for blood clots due to an underlying medical condition. They work by interrupting the body’s natural blood clotting process.

There are three main types of anticoagulant medications that act on different parts of the blood clotting process to prevent irregular blood clots: vitamin K antagonists, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), and low-molecular weight heparins.

Vitamin K, commonly found in green leafy vegetables such as broccoli and spinach, helps your blood clot. Warfarin (brand name options include Coumadin® and Jantoven®) — one of the most common treatments for blood clotting disorders — is a vitamin K antagonist that prevents your liver from processing vitamin K into “factors,” or proteins that control your bleeding and help form blood clots. It is taken orally as tablets.

Warfarin is so commonly prescribed because of its proven effectiveness: it has been in use longer than other anticoagulants and reduces the rate of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation by 60%. It is also easier than other anticoagulants to reverse if you experience sudden bleeding from an injury or during surgery.

Because warfarin is so effective at preventing blood clotting, one of the main side effects is bleeding. The risk of serious bleeding is low, but you may bleed or bruise more easily after even small injuries. Difficulty stopping a nosebleed is also common.

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience heavy bleeding or bruising, including heavier than normal menstrual bleeding, and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Joint pain, discomfort or swelling, especially after an injury

Bruising that develops without an injury you remember

You will need to get frequent blood tests when taking warfarin to evaluate blood clotting and the medication’s effectiveness. Your doctor may choose to adjust your dosage based on your test results, which is why it's important to stay up to date with lab appointments.

Here are additional tips to avoid side effects and complications while taking warfarin:

Wear a medical ID bracelet to ensure that you receive proper medical care in an emergency situation.

Anticoagulants can interact with other medications. Speak to your doctor before taking any other medication, including over-the-counter medications or supplements.

Warfarin is not safe to take during pregnancy. If you are planning to become pregnant, speak with your doctor about switching to an alternate medication.

Consult with your doctor about dietary recommendations, as certain foods, particularly those that are high in vitamin K, can affect how warfarin works.

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like apixaban (Eliquis®), betrixaban (Bevyxxa®), dabigatran (Pradaxa®), edoxaban (Savaysa®), and rivaroxaban (Xarelto®) directly block the blood’s ability to form clots. They are the newest class of anticoagulants, having been first introduced into the market in 2010.

These medications offer some advantages in contrast to other anticoagulants. Unlike warfarin, they do not require regular lab work. They are also less likely to interact with food, so there aren’t any dietary restrictions. There are FDA-approved antidotes for dabigatran, apixaban, and rivaroxaban to stop excessive bleeding in the event of trauma or emergency surgery.

On the other hand, DOACs are shorter-acting than vitamin K antagonists, so missing even one dose can make you vulnerable to blood clot formation.

The most serious side effect to watch for is uncontrolled bleeding, though it is rare. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience heavy or unusual bleeding or bruising.

Some studies also suggest that DOACs may be unsafe to take while pregnant. If you are planning on getting pregnant, speak with your healthcare provider about alternate medications.

Avoid taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen while taking a DOAC, and wear a medical ID bracelet to ensure proper medical treatment in the event of an emergency.

This medication class, which includes dalteparin (Fragmin®) and enoxaparin (Lovenox®), is primarily used for short periods of time to treat or prevent a deep vein thrombosis — a blood clot in the body’s deep veins, often in the legs. It can also reduce your risk of pulmonary embolism, a blockage in your lung arteries as the result of a blood clot.

In contrast to other anticoagulants, LMWHs are often used as a bridge to longer-term use of another anticoagulant such as warfarin, though some people take LMWHs for longer periods of time. They can be administered via IV drip in hospitals or doctors’ offices or through subcutaneous injections at home once or twice a day. No blood tests are required.

Redness, irritation, and bruising at the site of infection

Consult your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of taking an LMWH, and make sure they are aware of any other medications you take. In particular, NSAIDs can increase your risk of bleeding while taking LMWHs.

Alto makes it as simple as possible to follow the treatment your doctor recommends. We offer same-day delivery and medication management tools like dose reminders and auto refills in our app. Our team of patient care pharmacists is also available to walk you through dosage instructions and answer your questions. Reach out by phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in-app messaging to get started.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive and long-term inflammatory lung condition characterized by a persistent cough and shortness of breath. Read on to learn more about the stages of COPD, including the symptoms and treatment options for each stage.

What to Know About the Four Stages of COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive and long-term inflammatory lung condition characterized by a persistent cough and shortness of breath. While COPD is caused by smoking 85-90% of the time, exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, and industrial dust and fumes also contributes to cases. It’s the third leading cause of death in the U.S. and affects more than 15 million Americans.

Detecting COPD early on is critical to slowing the progression of the disease and avoiding serious complications. Doctors use a system called the GOLD Criteria to determine how severe each person’s COPD is. There are four distinct stages of COPD: mild, moderate, severe, and very severe. Your physician will determine your stage based on results from a breathing test called a spirometry, which assesses lung function by measuring how much air you can breathe in and out and how quickly and easily you can exhale. They will also consider the severity of your symptoms and the frequency of flare-ups.

As a progressive lung disease, COPD symptoms gradually become more severe over time, and people with COPD also grow increasingly susceptible to complications such as heart problems, pulmonary hypertension, and lung cancer. But while there is no cure for the condition, it is treatable: you can slow the progression by working with your doctor to establish a treatment plan and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits like avoiding cigarette smoke, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and getting your yearly flu shot.

Read on to learn more about the stages of COPD, including the symptoms and treatment options for each stage.

The main symptoms of stage 1 COPD are shortness of breath and an ongoing cough, which may be accompanied with mucus. However, these symptoms are so mild that you may not realize you are experiencing them. 

Though stage 1 COPD symptoms are easy to miss, damage to the lungs still occurs. If you have any concerns that you may have COPD, speak with your doctor about an assessment. And if you currently smoke, try to quit as soon as possible to protect your lungs.

In addition to smoking cessation, your doctor may also prescribe a bronchodilator medication, which relaxes airway muscles to ease breathing and is typically taken through an inhaler. Common side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, tremors, runny nose, and throat irritation. If you experience severe side effects like blurry vision, a rapid or irregular heart rate, or an allergic reaction with a rash or swelling, contact your healthcare provider.

You should also stay up to date with yearly flu shots and pneumonia vaccines to avoid worsening of respiratory symptoms and other health complications.

In this stage, previously existing symptoms from stage 1 intensify as airflow limitations progress. Shortness of breath during physical activities is more noticeable, and coughing and mucus production may increase. Other symptoms include wheezing, fatigue, and trouble sleeping.

This is often the stage where you may first become aware of symptoms and seek treatment. Your doctor may prescribe a bronchodilator medication if they haven’t already, along with recommending breathing exercises. Techniques like pursed lip breathing and coordinated breathing can help you exert yourself less during physical activities and maintain an active lifestyle.

In addition to your medications, pulmonary rehabilitation is another common component of treatment for stage 2 COPD. It gives people living with COPD the tools they need to manage their condition, reducing the severity of symptoms and improving their quality of life. At these outpatient exercise and education programs, physical therapists, dietitians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals will share breathing techniques, coping strategies, nutritional advice, and exercise recommendations. Your doctor can help you determine if pulmonary rehabilitation is right for you.

The frequency of your doctor’s appointments depends on the severity of your condition. If symptoms are mild, you may have follow-up appointments every six months, while more severe symptoms will require more frequent monitoring.

At stage 3, lung function has significantly decreased. As the walls of the air sacs in the lungs continue to weaken, it becomes more difficult to take in oxygen and remove carbon dioxide while exhaling.

Previous symptoms are more intense and more noticeable: shortness of breath has worsened, coughing or wheezing occurs more frequently, and you may produce thicker mucus.

You may also experience the following symptoms:

In this stage, you may experience flare-ups when symptoms suddenly become more severe and lung function dramatically changes. During these exacerbations, you may feel greater amounts of mucus clogging your bronchial tubes and sudden constrictions of the muscles around your airways.

Flare-ups are the leading cause of COPD-related hospitalizations, and it’s important to take immediate action if you experience symptoms of a flare-up. Watch out for the following signs:

Wheezing or whistling noises when you breathe

Cognitive impairment including confusion, depression, or memory lapses

As part of your COPD treatment, your doctor will help you develop an action plan for managing flare-ups, including medications. Oral steroids including prednisone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone can treat acute COPD exacerbations. Side effects from short-term use of these medications are typically minor, if they occur. 

If you have frequent flare-ups, your doctor may prescribe inhaled corticosteroids including Flovent® HFA and Qvar Redihaler®; expectorants, which thin and loosen mucus; or oxygen therapy. You may also need to see your doctor every two weeks to a month for ongoing monitoring of symptoms.

In stage 4 of COPD, lung function is very low. Stage 3 symptoms worsen and become more persistent. Shortness of breath and chest tightness occur with everyday activities, and it becomes a big effort just to breathe. Hospitalizations for breathing complications, lung infections, or respiratory failure are common during stage 4 COPD, and sudden flare-ups can be life-threatening.

Pulmonary hypertension, a form of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in your lungs and the right side of your heart

There are various treatment options for severe COPD symptoms, including supplemental oxygen, pulmonary rehabilitation, and steroids taken orally, intravenously, or via inhaler. Potential side effects from steroids include swelling in the airways and mouth, muscle weakness, weight loss, fatigue, and increased risk for pneumonia. Read our previous blog to learn more about managing medication side effects, and speak with your doctor if you have questions or concerns.

Supplemental oxygen, or oxygen therapy, helps get more oxygen into your lungs and increases your tolerance for physical activities. There are several devices for oxygen therapy. The most common is a nasal cannula, a device with two small tubes that fit into your nostrils and a connected oxygen tank. Adjusting to supplemental oxygen is a process, but you’ll come to feel more and more comfortable with time. The American Lung Association has helpful resources for anyone starting oxygen therapy.

Lung surgery or lung transplants are also options for some people with severe COPD. Eligibility is based on many factors, including participation in a pulmonary rehabilitation program, lung function tests, and additional considerations such as whether you are strong enough for the procedure and if you smoke. (You cannot be a current smoker for lung surgery eligibility.) Your doctor can help you determine if lung surgery is right for you.

Detecting and treating early-stage COPD is essential to slowing the progression of the disease. If you are experiencing any early warning signs like shortness of breath and a persistent cough, make an appointment with your doctor to determine what’s causing your symptoms. Early COPD screening is especially important if you smoke since you face a greater risk of developing this lung disease.

Many people struggle with quitting smoking, so don’t be afraid to ask your doctor for resources that can help, including nicotine replacement products or medications. The CDC has a variety of smoking cessation resources to help as well.

Get the treatment you need to slow the progression of COPD

Sticking to the treatment your doctor has recommended is critical to avoiding COPD flare-ups and slowing the progression of the disease. At Alto, we make that as easy as possible by offering free hand-delivery, automatic savings investigations, and easy medication management tools through our website and app. And our team of pharmacists is always here to answer your questions by phone or in-app messaging. 

To learn how Alto can support your COPD treatment plan, you can reach out via phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in-app messaging. 

The arrival of your fertility medications can be a little overwhelming. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect when unboxing your fertility medications from Alto Pharmacy.

Unboxing Your Fertility Medications from Alto Pharmacy

While the arrival of your medications is definitely a big milestone on the road to IVF or egg freezing, it can also be a little overwhelming. Many people are surprised to find just how much is packed inside the box — not only the fertility medications themselves, but all the ancillary supplies along with them. On top of that, many fertility medications have to be refrigerated or prepared a certain way, so it’s important to have a pharmacy partner that considers these additional factors during packaging.

At Alto, we’re committed to removing stress from the fertility journey wherever we can, including the delivery and unboxing of your fertility medications. Customers often tell us how grateful they were for our clear labeling and packaging during fertility treatment. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect when unboxing your fertility medications from Alto Pharmacy.

You’ll receive all the ancillary supplies needed for medication administration, including a mixing needle, an injection needle, and a syringe. We send a few backup needles, too, so there’s no need to panic if you happen to misplace one, as well as a starter supply of alcohol swabs. Each ancillary is packaged in its own bag and labeled with a sticker that explains its purpose and accompanying medication.

Some medications require you to mix a powder and liquid solution prior to administration. It’s important to swirl the medication, since shaking will cause the mixed medication to foam, which may make it unusable. All of these medications are clearly labeled with a “swirl mix!, don’t shake” sticker as a reminder.

Refrigeration is essential with many fertility medications. We ensure that medications are held at the right temperature while in transit and give you the information you need to keep them properly stored at home.

In courier packages, refrigerated medications are packed inside of insulated mailers or box liners, with stamps or stickers on the outside letting you know to store the contents somewhere cold. And if your package includes both refrigerated and non-refrigerated medications, we package them separately so that each medication is stored under the proper conditions.

For customers who live outside of our courier zones, we offer overnight delivery of fertility medications through a third party shipping service. We use styrofoam containers and ice packs for these deliveries to hold medications at the right temperature until you get them.

You’ll never have to wonder where your medications are: once your delivery is scheduled, you can see where your courier is and get text updates on their ETA. We also offer discreet packaging to ensure privacy if you need medication sent to the office, or if it arrives at home when you’re out.

Choose a reliable pharmacy partner for fertility treatment

As an Alto customer, you’ll never have to worry about whether medications will arrive on time, in the right condition — and you’ll never be alone in navigating fertility treatment.

Learn how we can support your fertility journey here or reach out at any time via phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in-app messaging.

Unboxing Your Fertility Medications from Alto Pharmacy 

June marks Men’s Health Awareness Month, an important reminder to take charge of your health and wellness. Here’s more information on three of the top men’s health issues to help you get started.

Preventative Steps to Take for Men's Health Month

June marks Men’s Health Awareness Month, an important reminder to take charge of your health and wellness. Men are less likely to go to the doctor than women, missing or delaying critical screenings and tests, and they also have a lower life expectancy. In honor of Men’s Health Month, commit to taking a proactive and preventive approach to your well-being. Here’s more information on three of the top men’s health issues to help you get started.

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer for men in the U.S., affecting about 1 in 8 men, and the second most fatal. It occurs when cancerous cells in the prostate gland, a male organ that helps produce semen, grow uncontrollably. Early-stage prostate cancer often doesn’t cause visible signs, but common symptoms of more advanced cases include trouble urinating, blood in your urine and/or semen, bone pain, weight loss, and erectile dysfunction.

Despite the seriousness and the prevalence of this disease, it has a high survival rate when detected at an early stage. More than 3.1 million men in the U.S. who have had prostate cancer are alive today. As with any health issue, the best way to prevent prostate cancer is to know your risk and be vigilant about screening.

Researchers have identified several key risk factors for prostate cancer:

Age: Your chances for getting prostate cancer increase significantly as you age, with roughly 6 in 10 instances of this cancer occurring in men over 65.

Race/ethnicity: For reasons not yet clear, Black men are about 1.6 times more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer than men from other racial and ethnic backgrounds. When diagnosed, they are also more likely to face more aggressive forms.

Family history: While most instances of prostate cancer occur in men without a family history of the disease, having an immediate relative who has had prostate cancer more than doubles your risk of developing it. The risk is higher if your relatives had it at a younger age.

The American Urological Association recommends prostate cancer screening every two years for men ages 55 to 69. However, if you are at higher risk, your doctor may recommend earlier or more frequent screenings. Consult with your doctor about your screening needs.

Heart disease, the leading cause of adult death in the United States, is a top health issue for men: 25% of all adult male fatalities are from heart disease. In general, men face a greater risk for heart disease than women, in part explained by protective effects of sex hormones, and they are also twice as likely to have a heart attack.

The sooner you detect heart disease, the easier it is to treat. Here are some common symptoms to recognize:

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult with your doctor right away to determine the best treatment plan. 

Learn more about heart health warning signs.

And since men are more likely to skip out on annual physicals than women, they are also less likely to have regular heart health-related screenings. If it’s been a while since your last physical exam, try to schedule one soon — regular doctor’s visits are essential to prioritizing heart health.

Here are some guidelines for staying on top of heart health screenings:

If your blood pressure is normal, below 120/80 mm Hg, get screened at least once per year. If you have high blood pressure, a reading consistently above 130/80 mm Hg, consult with your doctor about recommended screening frequency.

Check your cholesterol every 4-6 years if your risk is normal (under 200 mg/dL). Ask your doctor about recommended screening frequency if you have a higher risk for heart disease and stroke.

Get a blood glucose test for diabetes at least every three years, with more frequent screening if you have prediabetes.

Discuss healthy lifestyle habits including smoking, exercise, and diet at each regular visit.

Mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, and PTSD affect all people, but men are less likely to seek support and treatment than women, in part because of the misconception that asking for help is a sign of weakness. Left unaddressed, a mental health disorder can greatly impact a person’s physical health. 

Here are some common warning signs of the three most prevalent mental health issues:

Change in mood, weight, or work performance

Withdrawing from activities you once enjoyed

Physical symptoms, including headaches or stomach issues

Nervousness, restlessness, or feeling tense

Intrusive memories about the traumatic event

Avoiding people, places, or activities that remind you of the traumatic event

If you have experienced any of the symptoms above or are concerned about your mental health, talk to your doctor and ask for support. Your emotional well-being matters, and mental health disorders are treatable.

Read ‘How Mental Health Affects Heart Health’ to learn more about the heart-head connection.

To live your healthiest life, take an active role in your well-being year round, not just during Men’s Health Month. That means learning more about your risk for men’s top health issues, staying up to date with recommended screenings, and prioritizing healthy lifestyle choices. Most men’s health issues are preventable or treatable, but staying proactive is key.

At Alto, a pharmacist is your partner in health. Our team of patient care pharmacists is available to chat whenever questions come up - reach out via phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in our app.

If you’re allergy-prone, this time of year goes hand in hand with itchy eyes, congestion, heavy sneezing, and other unpleasant allergy symptoms. Here’s a quick primer on how to prepare for spring allergies.

The Best Ways to Prepare for Seasonal Allergies

Spring brings everything out of hibernation: baseball, perennials, and seasonal allergies, as millions of people in the U.S. unfortunately know all too well. If you’re allergy-prone, this time of year goes hand in hand with itchy eyes, congestion, heavy sneezing, and other unpleasant allergy symptoms. The good news is that small preventative steps, like extra cleaning and paying attention to pollen counts, can reduce your exposure to allergens. Here’s a quick primer on how to prepare for spring allergies.

Spring is a time of growth and renewal, and the science responsible for the fresh green leaves is also what causes pollen allergy symptoms. Pollen is a tiny grain that’s essential for plant reproduction. While some plant varieties count on insects to carry the tiny particles from one plant to another, others — like grasses and native trees including oaks, cedars, and birches — are wind-pollinated. That means these plants produce vast amounts of pollen to ensure the next generation of plants have a high chance of reproduction. Unfortunately for your sinuses, it can trigger allergic reactions that are uncomfortable and irritating.

As you’re waiting for winter to end, you may find that your allergy symptoms have already arrived. Trees start to release their pollen in late winter and early spring, while grasses pollinate in late spring. There’s lots of regional variation too, so depending on which part of the country you live in, you might experience pollen allergy symptoms as early as February or as late as fall.

While wind pollination is the primary source of seasonal allergies, mold also releases spores in the spring which travel by wind and can cause allergy symptoms.

What are the most common allergy symptoms?

As spring breezes begin to disperse pollen and mold spores, the body’s immune system goes into overdrive, leading to allergy symptoms like the following:

Hives may occur in some cases, though they are rare.

People with asthma should take extra precautions, as the same substances that trigger seasonal allergies — and even those that trigger year-round allergies, like pet dander — can also trigger acute asthma attacks. Allergy-triggered asthma, which is relatively common in children, affects the lungs and may lead to coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or rapid breathing.

With COVID-19, this year’s spring season poses some additional challenges for asthma sufferers, even as vaccination numbers increase. If you have asthma, follow the suggestions below on how to prevent spring allergies and learn more about asthma coping strategies during COVID.

We can’t change how susceptible our bodies are to allergies or asthma, but we do have some control in preparing for seasonal allergies and preventing pollen allergy symptoms. Here are three prevention tips.

After more than a year of travel restrictions, remote work, and limited access to public spaces, we’re all understandably eager to spend lots of time outdoors, where — you guessed it — there’s plenty of pollen in the air. You can limit your exposure to allergens and reduce your chances of an allergic reaction by taking a few extra steps before going outside. Check the local pollen count online — most weather apps include this as well — and take allergy medication in advance if the forecast is high. Pollen counts are typically highest in the morning, so consider opting for an indoor workout rather than an early run. In general, it’s best to stay inside when it’s dry and windy while rainy days offer a reprieve for allergy sufferers.

You’re unlikely to completely eliminate all allergens from your house, but there are some steps you can take to keep indoor air as clean as possible:

Turn on the AC instead of opening the windows when pollen counts are high.

Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor air dry — while dry days have higher pollen counts, too much humidity indoors can lead to mold growth and dust mites, intensifying allergy symptoms.

Vacuum at least once a week, ideally using a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which catches smaller particles like allergens.

When you’re ready to head home, avoid bringing the pollen back with you by changing and washing your clothes and taking off your shoes as soon as you’re back. Drying clothes in a dryer is better than putting them on a clothesline, where they’ll likely gather more pollen.

Top Over-the-Counter Treatments for Seasonal Allergies

There are a variety of medications used to manage allergy symptoms, including the over-the-counter treatments below. It may take some trial and error to find the best relief for your seasonal allergies, so if you’re still sniffly after exploring several options, don’t worry: a healthcare provider can work with you to find the best solution for your needs.

A saline sinus rinse flushes allergens out of your nose to relieve congestion.

Oral antihistamines like Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec are helpful for sneezing, itchy, runny nose, and watery eyes.

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