Allergy Medicine That Doesn't Dry You Out
Allergies can be a real pain, especially when they come with unpleasant side effects. One of the most common side effects of allergy medicine is dryness. Dry mouth, dry eyes, and dry skin can make allergy sufferers feel even more uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are allergy medicines available that don't dry you out. In this article, we'll explore the different types of allergy medicine that can help you feel better without the uncomfortable dryness.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are one of the most commonly used allergy medicines. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is produced by the body in response to an allergen. Histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms of allergies, including itching, sneezing, and runny nose. While antihistamines can be effective in relieving these symptoms, some types can cause dryness.
The first generation of antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), are notorious for causing dryness. These antihistamines can make you feel drowsy and cause dry mouth, dry nose, and dry eyes. However, second-generation antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec), are less likely to cause dryness. They are also less likely to make you feel drowsy.
If you're looking for an antihistamine that won't dry you out, choose a second-generation antihistamine. These medicines are available over the counter and come in various forms, including tablets, liquids, and dissolvable tablets.
Nasal Steroids
Nasal steroids are another type of allergy medicine that can help relieve symptoms without causing dryness. These medicines work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, which can help reduce congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. Unlike antihistamines, which can take up to an hour to start working, nasal steroids can provide relief within a few hours.
Some common nasal steroids include fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), and budesonide (Rhinocort). These medicines are available over the counter and by prescription. They come in the form of nasal sprays and are generally safe for long-term use.
Leukotriene Inhibitors
Leukotriene inhibitors are a type of allergy medicine that work by blocking the effects of leukotrienes, which are chemicals produced by the body in response to allergens. Leukotrienes cause inflammation and can contribute to symptoms such as wheezing and coughing.
Montelukast (Singulair) is a common leukotriene inhibitor. It is available by prescription and comes in the form of a tablet. Montelukast is generally well-tolerated and doesn't cause dryness. It can be especially helpful for people with asthma, as it can help reduce inflammation in the airways.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a type of allergy treatment that involves exposing the body to gradually increasing amounts of an allergen over time. This can help the body build up a tolerance to the allergen and reduce symptoms. Immunotherapy can be administered through shots or sublingual drops.
While immunotherapy can be effective in reducing allergy symptoms, it can also cause side effects such as dryness. However, these side effects are generally mild and temporary.
Conclusion
Allergy medicine doesn't have to leave you feeling dry and uncomfortable. There are many types of allergy medicine available that can help relieve symptoms without causing dryness. Antihistamines, nasal steroids, leukotriene inhibitors, and immunotherapy are all effective options. Talk to your doctor to determine which allergy medicine is right for you.
