Allergies are one of the most common afflictions to people. Most people suffer from allergy in some part of their life. Allergies cannot be completely gotten rid of with medicines, which is why it is best to try to avoid the allergen that is causing problems. What medicines can do, however, is to ease some of the symptoms of allergies. Allergy medicines are available for congestion and runny nose.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines can be taken as pills, liquid, nasal spray or eye drops. Nasal sprays often use antihistamines in order to fight year-round allergies. Eye drops can be used to alleviate the symptoms of itchy eyes. They can be administered by subscription but over the counter options are widely available too.
Side effects:
The side effects of antihistamines include drowsiness.
Decongestants
Decongestants are used in pill, eye drop or liquid form. The way they work is to block the swelling in the mucous membranes where it occurs. Therefore, they ease the feeling of congestion and help with runny nose.
Side effects:
Rising levels of blood pressure are associated with these medications. This is why people with problems with blood pressure should avoid these medications. Other side effects include drowsiness and irritablitiy.
Steroids
Steroids are sometimes used to treat inflammation that comes with allergies. They can be taken as pills, creams or drops. In addition steroids can be taken for asthma with an asthma inhaler.
Side effects:
Steroid side affects usually occur when they are taken regularly during an extended period of time.
– Weight gain
– Fluid retention
– High blood pressure
– Diabetes
– Cataracts
– Osteoporosis
– Muscle weakness
Bronchodilators
Bronchodilators are prescription drugs, which are inhaled to relieve asthma symptoms. They work by relaxing the muscles of the airways.
Side effects:
High blood pressure is a side effect of bronchodilators. This is because they are potent drugs.
These medicines are some ways that allergies can be treated. They are good at providing temporary comfort when allergies call for treatment.