Allergies are one of the most common chronic conditions in the United States. More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year, and the numbers are only increasing. While there are many different types of allergies, they all have one thing in common: they can be extremely debilitating and make everyday activities a challenge.
There are a variety of allergy medicines available on the market, and it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you. Here is a guide to the most common allergy medicines and their pros and cons.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are the most common type of allergy medicine. They work by blocking histamine, a substance that your body produces in response to an allergic trigger. Histamine is responsible for the symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as itching, swelling, and runny nose.
There are both over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines. The most common over-the-counter antihistamines are diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and loratadine (Claritin). Prescription antihistamines include fexofenadine (Allegra) and cetirizine (Zyrtec).
Antihistamines are generally safe and effective for most people. However, they can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and urinary retention. If you have asthma or other respiratory conditions, antihistamines can make your symptoms worse.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are another type of allergy medicine that can be taken orally or inhaled. They work by reducing inflammation in the airways and nasal passages. This can help to relieve the symptoms of allergies, such as nasal congestion and wheezing.
Corticosteroids are available in both over-the-counter and prescription forms. Over-the-counter corticosteroids include budesonide (Pulmicort) and fluticasone (Flonase). Prescription corticosteroids include prednisone and dexamethasone.
Corticosteroids are generally safe, but they can cause side effects such as weight gain, mood swings, and insomnia. If you have diabetes or other chronic health conditions, corticosteroids can also worsen your symptoms.
Nasal Sprays
Nasal sprays are another type of allergy medicine that can help to relieve nasal congestion and other symptoms. Nasal sprays work by delivering a small amount of medication directly to the nasal passages. This helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the airways.
Nasal sprays are available in both over-the-counter and prescription forms. Over-the-counter nasal sprays include fluticasone (Flonase) and Cromolyn (NasalCrom). Prescription nasal sprays include budesonide (Rhinocort) and mometasone (Nasonex).
Nasal sprays are generally safe, but they can cause side effects such as nosebleeds and throat irritation. If you use them too often, they can also lead to rebound congestion, where your symptoms get worse after you stop using the spray.
Leukotriene Inhibitors
Leukotriene inhibitors are a type of allergy medicine that works by blocking leukotrienes, substances that contribute to inflammation in the airways. This can help to reduce the symptoms of allergies such as asthma, nasal congestion, and runny nose.
Leukotriene inhibitors are available in both over-the-counter and prescription forms. The most common over-the-counter leukotriene inhibitor is montelukast (Singulair). Prescription leukotriene inhibitors include zafirlukast (Accolate) and montelukast (Zyflo).
Leukotriene inhibitors are generally safe, but they can cause side effects such as headache, upset stomach, and dizziness. If you have asthma or other respiratory conditions, leukotriene inhibitors can make your symptoms worse.
Anti-Histamine
What are antihistamines?
Antihistamines are drugs that relieve allergy symptoms. They work by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that triggers allergy symptoms.
There are many different types of antihistamines. Some are available over-the-counter (without a prescription), while others are available by prescription only.
How do antihistamines work?
Antihistamines relieve allergy symptoms by blocking histamine. Histamine is a substance in the body that is released during an allergic reaction. It causes the symptoms of an allergy, such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
What are the different types of antihistamines?
There are many different types of antihistamines. Some are available over-the-counter (without a prescription), while others are available by prescription only.
The most common over-the-counter antihistamines are:
Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Fexofenadine (Allegra)
Loratadine (Claritin)
The most common prescription antihistamines are:
Desloratadine (Clarinex)
Levocetirizine (Xyzal)
How do I take an antihistamine?
Antihistamines are typically taken orally (by mouth). Some types are also available as a nasal spray, eye drops, or skin cream/ointment.
When taking an oral antihistamine, it is important to follow the directions on the package or from your healthcare provider. This will help ensure that you take the correct dose and do not take too much. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids when taking an oral antihistamine, as this can help prevent side effects such as dry mouth and constipation.
Side effects of antihistamines
The most common side effects of antihistamines include:
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Fatigue
Headache
Stomach upset
Trouble urinating
Weight gain
Although most side effects are mild and go away after a few days, some side effects can be more serious. If you experience any severe side effects, stop taking the antihistamine and contact your healthcare provider right away.
Natural Remedy for Allergy
There are many different types of allergies and each person may be allergic to something different. However, there are some natural remedies that can help to alleviate allergy symptoms for many people. Here are some of the most effective natural remedies for allergies:
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a popular natural remedy for a variety of different health conditions, including allergies. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can help to break down mucus and reduce inflammation. It can also help to boost the immune system. Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water and drink it before meals. You can also add a little honey to sweeten the taste.
2. Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut. They help to keep the gut healthy and can also help to boost the immune system. Probiotics can be found in yogurt, fermented foods, and supplements. Look for a probiotic supplement that contains at least 10 billion CFUs (colony forming units).
3. Quercetin
Quercetin is a type of flavonoid that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help to relieve allergy symptoms by reducing histamine production. Histamine is a chemical that is released during an allergic reaction and it causes many of the symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. You can find quercetin in foods such as onions, apples, berries, and broccoli. It is also available in supplement form.
4. Butterbur
Butterbur is an herb that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions, including allergies. Butterbur contains compounds that can help to block histamine receptors and prevent histamine from binding to them. This can help to reduce allergy symptoms. Butterbur is available in supplement form or as a tea.
5. Local Honey
Local honey can be effective in treating allergies because it can help to desensitize the body to pollen. Start with a small amount of honey and gradually increase the amount you consume over time. Local honey is available at farmers markets or from local beekeepers.
6. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil has strong anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce allergy symptoms, such as congestion, runny nose, and sinus pressure. It can also help to improve breathing by opening up the airways. Peppermint oil is available in supplement form or you can add a few drops to a diffuser or inhale it directly from the bottle.
7. Ginger
Ginger is a popular spice that has many health benefits, including the ability to reduce allergy symptoms. Ginger can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the airways, making it easier to breathe. It can also help to break down mucus and relieve congestion. Ginger is available fresh, dried, or in supplement form. Add it to food or make a tea by boiling water and adding a few slices of ginger root.
