How to Combat Allergies

More than 50 million people in the United States have allergies, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. An allergic reaction occurs when your immune system negatively responds to environmental substances, such as pollen, bee venom or pet dander, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some medications and natural remedies provide effective ways to combat allergies and alleviate most symptoms.

Things You'll Need

• Antihistamine
• Vitamin C
• Saline spray
• Homeopathic treatment

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Instructions

Combat Allergies

• 1

  Use an antihistamine to combat allergies. Take diphenhydramine as needed for occasional allergy issues. Use a 24-hour antihistamine such as loratadine or cetirizine for persistent seasonal allergies. Talk to your doctor about a stronger, prescribed antihistamine if the over-the-counter products prove ineffective. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of allergy shots.

• 2

  Take vitamin C, a natural antihistamine, on a daily basis, along with other drugs, such as antihistamines and decongestants. Break up the vitamin C dose in three segments. Take the treatment in the morning, after lunch and with dinner to maintain the proper levels of the vitamin throughout the day. Increase the dosage to four times daily if your allergies worsen. Consult a doctor on the dosage that is appropriate for you.

• 3

  Buy a saline spray available at the pharmacy or grocery store. Use it in conjunction with other approaches. Use the saline spray daily to maintain proper moisture in the sinus cavity. Spray twice in each nostril. Hold one nostril shut while spraying in the other nostril, and do the same for the other nostril. As you spray, breathe in quickly and deeply through the open nostril so that the saline solution effectively reaches deep in the sinus cavity. Repeat on the other nostril. Spray three to four times a day or as often as needed. There is no limit to how often you can use it.