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Many factors — including cost, effectiveness, and availability (over-the-counter vs. prescription) — as well as side effects go into the choice of allergy treatments. Consult a medical professional to discuss which option might be best for you.
Originally published May 8, 2014. Updated in 2017.
–Medshadow Staff
Allergy Treatment
Antihistamines (Allegra, Claritin, Zyrtec, etc.)
How it works
Reduce allergy symptoms by blocking the formation of histamines, the chemicals that your body produces in reaction to allergens and that cause a stuffy or drippy nose and watery or itchy eyes
Common side effects/other considerations
Dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness
Allergy Treatment
Decongestants (Afrin, Dristan, Sudafed, etc.)
How it works
Relieve nasal congestion by shrinking swollen tissues and blood vessels inside the nose
Common side effects/other considerations
Jitteriness, sleeplessness, rebound effect (congestion gets worse instead of better)
Treatment
Steroid nasal sprays (Beconase, Flonase, Nasacort, etc.)
How it works
Treat allergy symptoms by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages
Common side effects/other considerations
Nosebleed, sore throat
Allergy Treatment
Leukotriene inhibitors (Singulair, etc.)
How it works
Inhibit a chemical your body produces called leukotriene, which makes the nasal passages swell and generate mucus
Common side effects/other considerations
Headache, earache, sore throat
Treatment
Mast cell stabilizers (Crolom, NasalCrom, etc.)
How it works
Prevent the release of symptom-causing chemicals, including histamines, when you are exposed to pollens
Common side effects/other considerations
Stinging, burning, redness and swelling of the eyes (if taken as eyedrops); congestion, sneezing, itching, nosebleeds (if taken as a nasal spray)
Allergy Treatment
Immunotyherapy
How it works
Reduces your body’s sensitivity to allergens by exposing it to very small amounts, which are gradually increased
Common side effects/other considerations
Itchy eyes, shortness of breath, runny nose, tight throat (shots); itchy mouth, throat irritation (pills)
Treatment
Herbal remedies
How it works
Like allergy medicines, they may act as antihistamines, decongestants, leukotriene inhibitors, or mast cell stabilizers; their function varies by herb or formulation.
Common side effects/other considerations
Digestive upset; skin rash if allergic
Allergy Treatment
Acupuncture
How it works
Seeks to restore the proper flow of qi (energy) through the placement of very thin needles into the skin at specific points on the body
Common side effects/other considerations
Bleeding, bruising, minor pain, or soreness; if you are taking blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder, consult your doctor before receiving acupuncture.
