Tackling Sniffle Season

Allergies, whether seasonal or perennial, can be extremely bothersome. An itchy nose, watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, rashes, and cough are all common symptoms of allergies. Don’t suffer unnecessarily. With over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medications, relief is possible.

1. Steroid nasal sprays

Although many people assume allergies need to be treated with a pill, the intranasal route is a great option to consider when congestion or a runny nose is the main complaint. Some nasal sprays contain steroids, and work by reducing inflammation, or swelling, in the nasal cavity. Since the drug works locally in the nose, the medication is considered safe, and side effects are less likely. For people who prefer a non-medicated route, saline sprays, which simply contain a saltwater solution, can help moisturize and clear nasal passages, easing congestion.

2. Antihistamines

When a pill is desired, antihistamines are a great go-to option for treating allergies. This class of drugs works by blocking histamine, a chemical released by the immune system that causes the symptoms of an allergic reaction. Antihistamines are divided into 2 classes, with H1 receptors most commonly used to treat allergies. Many antihistamines are available in OTC without a prescription. Allergy sufferers should note that drowsiness is a common side effect of antihistamines, so making sure to avoid taking the drug prior to activities that require alertness is important.

3. Decongestants

Another great OTC option for treating allergies are decongestants, which work by shrinking swollen blood vessels and tissues in the nose. Decongestants come in different forms, including pills and nasal sprays. The oral form works quickly and can effectively relieve sinus pressure and congestion. Drugs from the alpha1A adrenoceptor agonists class are typically used in nasal decongestants and help to target symptoms of colds, allergies, and hay fever. While effective, people should be sure to avoid using decongestant nasal sprays for longer than 3 days to minimize the risk of rebound congestion.

The multi-symptom approach

In some cases, multiple allergy symptoms mean multiple medications may be required. Many OTC options contain more than 1 drug to provide sustained relief. For example, a decongestant and an antihistamine are sometimes combined for a stronger effect. In other cases, a pain relief drug may be added to an allergy product to help target sinus headaches or pressure. If a person has multiple allergy symptoms, a multi-symptom product may be the answer.

OTC relief is possible

Allergies are a common issue, affecting nearly 1 in 3 adults in the United States. Although a trip to the doctor is sometimes warranted, in many cases, OTC relief is possible. Steroid nasal sprays, antihistamines, and decongestants are all great options to consider for allergy symptom relief. Speak with a pharmacist for more information about any OTC allergy medication.