According to the Mayo Clinic, allergies occur when the immune system reacts to foreign invaders such as dust, pet dander or pollen. Allergies are common, with one out of five people affected and can cause headaches, sinus problems, itching or any combination of these symptoms. Allergy symptoms can be controlled by anti-histamines, decongestants, leukotriene modifiers or steroid allergy medications.
Antihistamine
Antihistamines block histamine from binding to cell receptors, preventing the chemical reaction that causes allergy symptoms. Although antihistamines reduce symptoms like sneezing, runny nose and itchiness, side effects include headache, drowsiness, dry mouth and vision changes. Antihistamine brands available over-the-counter are Chlor-Trimeton, Claritin and Benadryl. Each of these OTC brands come in specific allergy remedies or catch-all formulas. Prescription brands, available through a physician, include Astelin nasal spray, Histex CT and Clarinex.
Decongestant
Decongestants do what the name says, reduce congestion. With allergies, nasal congestion is the most common symptom. Pressure from the congestion causes fatigue as well as sinus pain. According to James Balch, MD, author of "Prescription for Drug Alternatives," decongestants work by constricting the blood vessels, reducing inflammation, swelling and stuffiness. Common decongestant side effects are insomnia, headache and loss of appetite. Many decongestants are available at pharmacies, but since they contain psuedo-ephedrine, an ingredient used in illicit drug manufacturing, they must be obtained by speaking directly to the pharmacist. Brands include Actifed, Sudafed and Triaminic. They come in many formulas, from day-time use only to 24-hour relief. Brands such as Triaminic and Dimetapp also have children's formulas.
Leukotriene Modifiers & Nasal Corticosteroids
Allergy sufferers whose symptoms affect their ability to live a normal life will have a physician prescribe an allergy medication. Leukotriene modifiers inhibit the inflammatory process to reduce symptoms associated with it. Leukotriene modifiers are safer than steroid-based medications and can be used for long-term relief. Singulair is the only leukotriene modifier currently available and according to Drugs.com may take weeks to improve symptoms.
Nasal corticosteroids work to decrease nasal congestion by reducing the substances promoting allergy symptoms. Side effects of nasal corticosteroids are headache, nosebleed and throat irritation. Available by prescription only, brands of nasal corticosteroids include Flonase and Nasacort AQ. After researching several nasal corticosteroid sprays, the Mayo Clinic demonstrated that they destroy good flora, causing individuals to become prone to fungal infections.
References
- Allergy
- "Prescription for Drug Alternatives"; James F. Balch, MD et al.; 2008
- "Nutriceuticals: The Complete Encyclopedia of Supplements, Herbs"; Arthur Roberts, M.D, et al.; 2001
