What do you take to relieve symptoms of allergies?

Antihistamines:

- Alleviate hay fever symptoms (runny nose, sneezing, itchy, red, and watery eyes)

- Treat mild allergic reactions, such as hives and skin allergies

Examples:

- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)

- Fexofenadine (Allegra)

- Loratadine (Claritin)

> NOTE:

Some antihistamines may cause drowsiness, making them unsuitable for use during the day or by people who operate machinery. Check the packaging or ask a healthcare professional before using.

Decongestants:

- Relieve nasal congestion caused by allergies or colds.

- Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine) are common decongestants available over the counter.

> CAUTION:

- Use decongestants cautiously if you have high blood pressure, heart problems, or glaucoma.

- Consult a healthcare professional if you have any of these conditions before using a decongestant.

Nasal steroids (corticosteroids):

- Prescription nasal sprays, such as fluticasone (Flonase), budesonide (Rhinocort), and triamcinolone (Nasacort).

- Long-term relief for hay fever and other allergies

- Some may cause side effects like nosebleeds, sore throat, and dryness

> NOTE:

Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional for proper use and dosage.

Eye drops:

- Antihistamine eye drops (e.g., ketotifen, olopatadine) or steroid eye drops (e.g., loteprednol, dexamethasone) can help with itchy, red, and watery eyes caused by allergies.

> CAUTION:

Do not use eye drops containing antihistamines if you wear contact lenses.

Consult your healthcare professional or a pharmacist before taking any medication for allergies. They can advise on the most suitable and safe options based on your individual situation. Self-treating severe allergic reactions can be dangerous, so seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms like swelling, difficulty breathing, or dizziness.