Allergy Medicine That Doesn't Make Your Heart Race
Allergies are common and can be a nuisance for many people. They can cause sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and other uncomfortable symptoms. For some people, allergies can be severe and even life-threatening. Allergy medicine can provide relief, but some medications can cause side effects such as a racing heart. Fortunately, there are allergy medications available that don't make your heart race.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a common type of allergy medication that can help relieve symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is a chemical that is released by the body in response to allergens. Some antihistamines can cause side effects such as drowsiness or a racing heart, but there are newer antihistamines available that are less likely to cause these side effects. Examples of newer antihistamines include loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec).
Nasal Steroids
Nasal steroids are another type of allergy medication that can be effective at relieving symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. They work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages. Nasal steroids are generally considered safe and don't usually cause side effects such as a racing heart. Examples of nasal steroids include fluticasone (Flonase) and mometasone (Nasonex).
Leukotriene Modifiers
Leukotriene modifiers are a type of allergy medication that can help relieve symptoms such as congestion and runny nose. They work by blocking the effects of leukotrienes, which are chemicals that are released by the body in response to allergens. Leukotriene modifiers are generally considered safe and don't usually cause side effects such as a racing heart. Examples of leukotriene modifiers include montelukast (Singulair) and zafirlukast (Accolate).
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a type of allergy treatment that involves exposing the body to small amounts of allergens over time. This can help the body build up a tolerance to the allergen and reduce the severity of allergy symptoms. Immunotherapy can be administered through injections or under-the-tongue tablets. While immunotherapy can be effective at reducing allergy symptoms, it can also cause side effects such as a racing heart. However, these side effects are rare and usually mild.
Conclusion
Allergy medication can be effective at relieving symptoms, but some medications can cause side effects such as a racing heart. Fortunately, there are allergy medications available that don't make your heart race. Antihistamines, nasal steroids, leukotriene modifiers, and immunotherapy are all effective options that are less likely to cause side effects. If you are experiencing allergy symptoms and are concerned about the side effects of medication, talk to your healthcare provider about which options may be right for you.
