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What Can I Do for Extreme Allergies?

It's estimated that more than 50,000,000 Americans suffer from allergies. Some have seasonal, less severe allergies, while others suffer from very extreme allergies that can even threaten their lives. The Mayo Clinic defines an allergic reaction as "when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen, bee venom or pet dander." Sometimes allergies can be so severe that they significantly impact a person's quality of life. Medications and treatments are available for people suffering from such conditions.

  1. Corticosteroids

    • Take corticosteroids to reduce inflammation caused by allergies and also prevent the allergic reactions in the body from transpiring. Talk to your doctor about using corticosteroids, as they are only acquired by prescription. Learn about the most common corticosteroids used, such as eye drops, nasal sprays, skin lotions and oral pills, and see which is best for your condition. Discontinue use if you see any reactions such as hives, dizziness or fainting spells.

    Antihistamines

    • Decide what type of antihistamine is best for you. Choose between first- or second-generation antihistamines. First-generation antihistamines are much more powerful and effective at treating extreme allergies. These antihistamines are considered sedative drugs and can cause sleepiness, so they must be taken with precaution. Second-generation medications are less powerful and not as effective. They typically come in 24-hour pills that you should take daily. They are non-sedative, which makes them more appealing. Take a first-generation antihistamine such as Benadryl if you have an isolated reaction to a cat, or take a second-generation antihistamine such as Claritin if you have continual seasonal allergies.

    Allergy Shots

    • Take allergy shots on a regular basis to help your body build up immunity to certain substances that are causing the allergy symptoms. Talk to your doctor about this line of treatment because allergy shots are engineered on a per-need basis for each individual. Allergy shots do not cure allergies; they simply help the body lower its sensitivity to them. Get an allergy shot every week, and slowly increase the amount given to increase the body's resistance. Once the body builds up a resistance, get the shot every two to four weeks. Stay on the shot for a few years, and then have the doctor review your condition.

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