Isn’t it frustrating to have a runny nose or sneezing that won’t go away? Allergies commonly cause these symptoms and many others.
The good news is there’s a plethora of allergy medications on the market. However, we know it can be tricky to understand what makes them different and which one you should take based on your symptoms.
Read on to learn about the different allergy medication types and which one is right for you.
What Are the Different Types of Allergy Medications?
For some, allergies come and go as the seasons change, but for others, it’s a constant struggle. Whichever camp you fall into, we know how important it is to experience relief from your symptoms.
Understanding that there are different types of allergy medications in different forms that are used to treat varying symptoms will help you find the relief you’re longing for. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of allergy medications to help you own your health.
Antihistamines
Histamine is a chemical naturally produced in the body to help defend against an allergic reaction. This chemical is also responsible for the symptoms you experience, like coughing, sneezing or having a runny nose, during an allergic reaction. Essentially, histamine production is our body's way of alerting us something is wrong. But sometimes histamine production can go haywire, causing symptoms that can be more harmful than the allergen.
The role of antihistamines is to block the symptoms caused by histamines. They bind themselves to histamine receptors, preventing their reactions.
Common symptoms antihistamines are used to treat include:
- A runny nose
- Hives
- Itchiness
- Nasal congestion
- Sneezing
Antihistamines can come in multiple forms. You can go to your local store and buy them as a pill or nasal spray. The pill is better for treating itchiness, sneezing and a runny nose, while the nasal spray best treats congestion. Common brands of antihistamines include:
- Allegra
- Benadryl
- Clarinex
- Claritin
- Zyrtec
While most of these symptoms can be treated using over-the-counter medications, there are some instances where you need a prescription from your doctor.
Corticosteroids
Inflammation is another common symptom caused by allergies. Oftentimes, when you become congested, your nose will swell. When this happens, corticosteroids come into play. They’re synthetic hormones that mimic cortisol. The corticosteroids bind to glucocorticoid receptors, which help reduce inflammation in the body.
Other symptoms treated by corticosteroids include:
- Itchy nose, eyes, mouth or throat
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion
- Watery eyes
Corticosteroids come in multiple forms. The nasal spray is often used to treat allergy-related inflammation. The pill treats severe symptoms, and their use should be limited. If you’re experiencing itchy or watery eyes, this medication can be used as eye drops.
Common brands of corticosteroids in its various forms include:
- Alrex
- Flonase Allergy Relief
- Medrol
- Nasonex
Most corticosteroids are only available through a prescription from your doctor. If you’re experiencing symptoms that corticosteroids could relieve, consult your primary care provider.
Decongestants
Decongestants will do the trick if you have a stuffy nose or clogged sinuses. Typically, these medicines provide quick relief from congestion when compared to others. They work by reducing the increased fluid production in the nose and sinuses.
However, they aren’t meant to be used as a long-term method to treat your symptoms. It’s important that you consult your doctor if you’re experiencing long-term congestion to get the care you need.
Decongestants can be in the form of a pill, nasal spray or liquid. The nasal spray offers faster relief but should only be used for a short period. The pill is useful for those struggling with seasonal allergies. Common brands of decongestants found in stores include:
- Afrin
- Neo-Synephrine
- Sudafed
It’s important to note that decongestants shouldn’t be taken by individuals with various heart or thyroid conditions. Consult your doctor before you begin using decongestants.
Mast Cell Stabilizers
For those with year-round allergies, mast cell stabilizers might be just what you’re looking for. This allergy medication prevents mast cells in our bodies from releasing histamine and other inflammatory substances. The medication attaches to the histamine hormones and stabilizes their cell membranes, reducing allergy symptoms.
The symptoms they’re used to treat include:
- Inflammation
- Itchiness
- Sneezing
- Stomach pain
Mast cell stabilizers are mostly found in the form of inhalers, eye drops and oral solutions. Common brands include:
- Alamast
- Alocril
- Alomide
- Corlom
This type of allergy medication doesn’t offer quick relief. It usually requires several days of use to build up in your system before it fully kicks in. If you need quick relief, talk with your doctor.
Immunotherapy
This medication gradually exposes you to an allergen, allowing your immune system to build tolerance. This method is great for those who experience severe side effects from other allergy medications or those unable to take them. This type of medication is usually administered through a series of shots but is also offered in the form of a pill or liquid.
The symptoms they’re used to treat include:
- Hives
- Itchy throat or skin
- Severe nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
Immunotherapy shots must be prescribed by your doctor. If you feel this is the right medication for you, consult your primary care provider.
Your Health Care Advocate
At AdventHealth, we seek to care for all of you in body, mind and spirit. Visit us here to learn more about our allergy care services or schedule an appointment. Whatever symptoms you face, we want to help you champion your health.
