Help for Severe Sinus Allergies

Allergies are the result of your body's reaction to an allergen. According to the Mayo Clinic, your body produces a protein known as IgE antibodies. If you become allergic to a substance such as dander or pollen, your body will produce these IgE antibodies. The antibodies see foreign substances as invaders, and the antibodies will try to protect you from these substances. Though these foreign substances aren't harmful, your immune system thinks the substances are. As a result, histamines are released into your body, which produces the effects associated with allergies. Allergies can be an annoyance. Though your allergies cannot be cured, there are ways to help reduce the symptoms that can make you miserable.

Corticosteroids

• Corticosteroids are used in the prevention of allergic reactions. Corticosteroids can come in a variety of treatments, such as pills or liquids, nasal sprays, eye drops or creams. You'll need to speak with a physician about which treatment is best suitable, as many corticosteroids require a prescription. Oral corticosteroids help with severe allergies, while nasal sprays will help to alleviate any symptoms of sneezing, nasal stuffiness and itching. Corticosteroid eye drops can be used in severe allergy symptoms such as watery and itchy eyes. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, prolonged use of corticosteroids eye drops can lead to eye infections, glaucoma and cataracts.

Antihistamines

• Antihistamines work by preventing the release of histamines, which are the inflammatory chemicals released when you are having and allergic response. Antihistamines can be taken in oral form, nasal spray or eye drops. Most antihistamines are taken orally, such as Claritin and Benadryl. However, Benadryl causes drowsiness and shouldn't be used while driving.

Decongestants

• Decongestants are not for long-term relief and are only temporary. Decongestants are used to relieve symptoms of nasal and sinus congestion. Decongestants usually include pseudoephedrine. Pseudoephedrine helps to open congested and blocked nasal passages. Some examples of pseudoephedrine are Sudafed and Calritin-D. You can also get decongestants in nasal sprays and eye drops, such as Afrin (nasal spray) and Clear Eyes (eye drops).

Immunotherapy

• Immunotherapy is used when medications cannot help your symptoms or if you have side effects from allergy medications. Immunotherapy requires allergy shots. According to the Mayo Clinic, the shots range from a treatment course of three to five years. The shots contain allergen extracts, and the shots help to minimize any sensitivities to an allergy. As a result of these shot treatments, you will eventually no longer need any medications to help relieve allergy symptoms. Immunotherapy is best with allergies to pollen, dander, dust mites and grass.

Other Treatments

• Medications such as Singulair may help. Singulair is prescribed by your physician. The medication helps to block chemicals known as leukotrines. Leukotrines can cause nasal congestion, runny nose and sneezing. Singulair blocks these leukotrines from causing symptoms. NasalCrom is a nasal spray that can be bought over the counter. This nasal spray helps to block histamines and, according to the Mayo Clinic, it's best to use the spray prior to the onset of symptoms.

Avoidance

• If you know what causes your sinus allergy flareups, avoidance of these triggers can help. Speak with your physician on how to take steps in avoiding triggers, such as using air filters or air purifiers within your house. Have a family member do the dusting or vacuuming if these activities cause symptoms for you. Try to stay inside during peak allergy seasons or reduce your need of being exposed to allergens during peak seasons. If you have a pet, bathe your animal regularly and keep it indoors to minimize allergy exposure for yourself. Taking simple measures to avoid the causes of your allergy suffering can help minimize your suffering.