A common symptom of an allergic reaction is coughing due to post-nasal drip, a condition where phlegm constantly drips in the back of the throat, according to FamilyDoctor.org. An allergy is defined by MayoClinic.com as a reaction of the immune system to substance that most people are not sensitive to. The immune system attempts to remove any unwanted substance by releasing chemicals that result in allergic reaction symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes and an itchy throat. Talk with a doctor about the best treatment for coughs and allergies.
Over-the-Counter Medication
MayoClinic.com states that the most common over-the-counter, or OTC, for allergies and coughing are antihistamines, decongestants and cough suppressants. Antihistamines block the body from releasing the histamine hormone, which causes most allergy symptoms. Decongestants address sinus inflammation by restricting blood flow to the swollen cavity. The decrease in blood causes the sinus cavity to return to normal size, allowing proper nasal drainage. Cough suppressants prohibit the cough reflex from operating, reducing a person's cough.
Prescribed Medication
MedlinePlus states that corticosteroids are a prescribed medication to treat nasal allergies. Nasal allergies commonly lead to post-nasal drip which causes excessive coughing, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Corticosteroids are administered in a nasal spray and work by reducing inflammation in the sinuses. By maintaining the size of the sinuses, the amount of mucus dripping down the throat is reduced. Corticosteroids are the most effective when used for more than 2 weeks.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is used to treat people with severe or chronic allergies. Immunotherapy, or allergy shorts, are administered by an allergist and are effective at reducing the degree of an individual's allergy symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com. Small amounts of the allergen are injected into the individual's body over a few years, in order to desensitize it to the allergen. Allergy shots involve medical risk and should only be administered by an allergist.
Home Remedies
MedlinePlus states, the best treatment for a cough resulting from allergies is to avoid allergens. Once allergens are identified, someone should avoid exposure. For example, if an individual is diagnosed with an animal allergy, he should stay away from direct contact with animals. Other home remedies include saline nasal sprays, running a humidifier and maintaining a clean and dust-free home, according to MayoClinic.com
