Many suffer from allergies on a seasonal or, even worse, daily basis. Symptoms generally include a stuffy nose, itchy throat, postnasal drip, and red eyes that can make it difficult to concentrate on your work and enjoy your free time. Allergic reactions develop when your body is exposed to an external substance; one that is harmless to most, but your immune system interprets it as a foreign invader. These substances are called allergens.

In severe reactions, allergens can set off dangerous rashes or lead to breathing problems that require immediate medical attention. It is not always possible to avoid reaction-inducing substances, but you can look to treatment to help you manage your symptoms. Numerous over-the-counter and prescription medications exist to effectively alleviate or prevent allergy flare-ups. 

Individuals who need help dealing with their allergies have a number of options.

Histamine is an inflammation-inducing chemical discharged by the immune system following an encounter with allergens. Antihistamines work by preventing the histamine from triggering an allergic response. By blocking receptors the histamine uses to attach to and expand blood vessels and nasal tissues, antihistamines can reduce redness, swelling, and itching. Antihistamines are available in oral, nasal spray, and eye drop forms. They can relieve sneezing, itching, and a runny nose, but some—especially older, over-the-counter versions—may also impair alertness and lead to drowsiness. For this reason, individuals taking any antihistamines that are not specifically labeled “non-drowsy” are advised to refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery.

Decongestants work to prevent the sneezing, itching, and runny nose allergy symptoms, but they are considered to be a quicker and more temporary form of treatment. Instead of blocking the histamine, decongestants reduce the swelling of cells in the nose or eyes that have already expanded and reddened. Like antihistamines, decongestants may be administered in pill, nasal spray, and eye drop form. Pill versions are slower than nasal sprays and eye drops which offer a rapid, more targeted approach. Individuals using decongestants should be aware that they may increase blood pressure, cause insomnia and irritability, and restrict urinary flow.

If antihistamines and decongestants have not proven effective, doctors may suggest the patient try corticosteroids, prescription anti allergens used to prevent particularly troublesome reactions. Corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation in a number of chronic conditions, including arthritis, lupus, asthma, and nasal allergies. These medications can be ingested orally, inhaled in a spray form, applied to the skin, or injected. Individuals using corticosteroids are more likely than those using antihistamines or decongestants to experience negative, oftentimes serious side effects. These may include increased blood pressure and sugar levels, moodiness, weight gain, loss of calcium in the bones, and menstrual problems.

If none of the above prove effective, individuals may consult a doctor about allergy shots, otherwise known as immunotherapy. Allergy shots are a long-term solution to allergy reactions and work by increasing tolerance to a specific allergen. Individuals who undergo immunotherapy will receive regular injections of allergens over a three to five year period. Because the allergens are administered in very small doses, the patient is unlikely to develop a severe reaction. If the process is successful, most people are allergy free for five to ten years, sometimes longer.

Conclusion

Depending on the severity of your allergies, you may need to try one or more of the above approaches. Discuss these options with your doctor, and find out which option is best for you. Allergies can significantly affect your wellbeing if not treated, but there is no need to let them take over your life. Awareness of your allergens coupled with the correct treatment can free you from the sneezing, itching, and runny nose of allergies, regardless of your environment.