Nasal allergies affect one in five people, according the Mayo Clinic. Nasal allergies, also called “hay fever,” are the result of an allergic reaction to mold, seasonal allergens, dust mites and pet dander. Nasal allergy symptoms include a runny nose, nasal congestion, sinus pressure, postnasal drip and sinus pain, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Approaches
Various approaches, including natural remedies, lifestyle changes and medications, are used to treat nasal allergies. Medications are commonly used when natural or home remedies are not effective. You should consult a doctor before taking any medication.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are used to reduce the amount of histamine levels in the body to alleviate the common symptoms of hay fever, according to the National Library of Medicine. Over-the-counter antihistamines come in two classifications: first-generation and second-generation, according to familydoctor.org. First-generation antihistamines are more powerful and cause marked drowsiness. Second-generation antihistamines are noted for their 24-hour dosage and their non-drowsy formula. Antihistamines are commonly combined with a decongestant.
Decongestants
The Mayo Clinic states that decongestants are used to reduce inflammation in the sinus cavity by restricting blood flow. Decongestants are available over-the-counter in the form of pills, liquid or nasal spray. Decongestants relieve symptoms associated with nasal congestion such as sinus pressure, difficulty breathing and stuffiness. Oral decongestants can exacerbate high blood pressure, and cause irritability and insomnia. Nasal decongestant sprays should not be used for more than two to three days, as they can worsen a person’s symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Steroid Nasal Sprays
Steroid nasal sprays are available by prescription only and should be used under a doctor’s supervision. The National Library of Medicine states that nasal corticosteroids are the most effective drug to treat nasal allergies. These nasal sprays are intended for continual use to both prevent and treat hay fever symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, they are considered safe for use in most adults and do not have any known serious side effects.
Oral Corticosteroids
Oral corticosteroids use similar medications as nasal steroid sprays but in a pill form. This type of drug is used in severe allergy situations where other drugs have proven ineffective. Oral corticosteroids are commonly prescribed for a short amount of time because they can cause serious side effects if used for a long time, according to the Mayo Clinic. These side effects include muscle weakness, cataracts and osteoporosis.
