A runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, hives, and swelling can make our life exhausting. These all are the symptoms of allergy. We rarely know that it is a common type of autoimmune condition. It has various symptoms, which may range from annoying to life-threatening. But proper allergy medicine and treatment can help you be free from these health conditions.
Our body is affected by allergies due to an overreaction of the immune system. The immune system protects our body from invading viruses and bacteria. Allergies appear in the body when the immune system is affected by harmful substances. These substances are
The materials that make our immune system overreact is known as “allergen.” The Common allergens are:
Antihistamines are medications prescribe to prevent different types of allergies. This medicine helps to counteract the effects of histamines. It may cause swelling and dilation of blood vessels, causing symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.
Antihistamines are available in both forms, over-the-counter and prescription. It is available in the market as tablets, liquids, nasal sprays, creams, and eye drops.
Decongestants are prescribed to treat the stuffy nose and sinus congestion caused by allergies. These medications work by shrinking the blood vessels in the nose. It can also widen and open up nasal passages.
This allergy medication is available in different forms, such as:
Decongestants are available in different brand names, including Afrin nasal spray, Sudafed PE, etc. Before taking any medication, you should consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Nasal corticosteroids are prescribed to treat inflammation triggered by the allergen. It is a prescription medicine, available especially in spray form. Using the spray, you can ease symptoms of a seasonal allergy, including nasal stuffiness, sneezing, runny nose, etc. the medication is available in different brand names such as Flonase and Nasacort.
Common side effects that come from nasal corticosteroids include:
Epinephrine comes in an injection form, preventing the life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. With the symptoms of anaphylaxis, you should go with medical care and have been prescribed to take epinephrine.
This prescription drug can control the anaphylaxis symptoms, including breathing difficulty and swelling in the throat. It is also available in different brand names, such as EpiPen.
Immunotherapy aims to insert into the human body through injection in small amounts over time. Besides injection form, it is also available in tablet form that helps to combat allergens by putting it under the tongue. It helps to eliminate or prevent allergies from becoming severe.
A person needs to take the injection once a week. It is a long-term treatment, so you need to take around 7 months.