An allergy can be a frustrating condition to deal with. The symptoms of an allergy attack are caused by chemical signals that are released by your body when exposed to certain substances. Allergy medications either prevent these chemical signals from being released or block their actions on other parts of your body. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, flushing, rash, headaches and cough. Common medications used to control these symptoms are antihistamines, corticosteroids and decongestants. The key to reducing side effects of allergy medications is to make sure they only target the part of the body that is affected.
Second-Generation Antihistamines
According to FamilyDoctor.org, cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are newer, second-generation medications that do not have the same central nervous system side effects as first-generation medications. They do not cause sedation, anxiety, ringing in the ears, nausea or insomnia. The reduction in side effects in second-generation antihistamines is due to their more selective blocking of histamine receptors that cause allergy symptoms. Most antihistamines are available without a prescription.
Local Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are prescription medications used to treat allergic reactions. They work by reducing inflammation associated with an allergic reaction. Oral corticosteroids can be problematic because, according to the Mayo Clinic, they affect your entire body instead of a specific area. Because corticosteroids affect your entire body, you can develop glaucoma, cataracts, menstrual irregularities, increased infections, high blood pressure, swelling and weight gain. However, inhaled, topical or injected corticosteroids reduce these side effects because they are localized to the area that is inflamed or affected. Although not as broad or serious, these still have side effects. According to the Mayo Clinic, inhaled corticosteroids can cause cough, hoarseness, dry mouth and sore throat. Topical corticosteroids can cause skin thinning, red bumps and acne. Injected corticosteroids can cause pain, infection and shrinking of soft tissue.
Nasal Decongestants
According to Drugs.com, local nasal decongestant sprays provide immediate relief of stuffy nose by causing the blood vessels in your nasal sinuses to shrink. The shrinking of these blood vessels allows you to breathe easier. According to the Mayo Clinic, side effects include a nasal burning sensation, runny nose and sneezing. While these side effects are minimal, they can become severe with extended use of nasal decongestants. Limit your use to less than one week because severe congestion can occur if these medications are suddenly discontinued.
Member Comments