How to Relieve Allergy Symptoms

Allergies can cause a wide variety of irritating symptoms. During allergy season, you may experience anything from from a runny nose, sneezing, and congestion to itchy, watering eyes. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to minimize or eliminate those symptoms and get more enjoyment out of life during allergy season.

Instructions

• 1

  Decide which allergy symptoms are the most annoying and require relief. If some of your symptoms are mild, they may not need any treatment. For example, if you just have a small case of the sniffles, you may be able to tolerate it. If your nose is running constantly or you have a constant need to rub your itchy eyes, those symptoms need treatment.

• 2

  Select over-the-counter remedies that treat your specific symptoms. If you need relief from severe congestion or a constantly running nose, an oral decongestant or an antihistamine nasal spray can help. Eye drops can be used to relieve itching, watering and swelling. You can find these over-the-counter medications at any pharmacy.

• 3

  Ask the pharmacist whether you can combine your selected medications or whether there is any danger of an interaction. Allergies typically cause multiple symptoms, so it's common to need several medications for maximum relief. The pharmacist will help you chose an appropriate and safe combination.

• 4

  If over-the-counter medications don't give you enough relief, make an appointment with your doctor. You may need stronger medications that are only available with a prescription.

• 5

  Stay away from allergy triggers. The more you are exposed to allergens, the worse your symptoms will get. While medication can ease and control allergy reactions, you'll get the most relief if you avoid the triggers that caused them.