Best Over The Counter Medicine For Allergy Symptoms
Allergies are a common problem in the United States. Millions of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, which occur when the immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander. Allergies can cause a range of symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion. Fortunately, there are many over-the-counter (OTC) medicines available to help alleviate allergy symptoms. In this article, we will discuss the best OTC medicine for allergy symptoms.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are the most commonly used OTC medicine for allergy symptoms. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body in response to allergens. There are two types of antihistamines: first-generation and second-generation. First-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), can cause drowsiness and should be taken at night. Second-generation antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec), are non-drowsy and can be taken during the day. Antihistamines are effective at relieving sneezing, itching, and runny nose, but may not be as effective at relieving congestion.
Nasal Sprays
Nasal sprays are another type of OTC medicine for allergy symptoms. They work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, which can alleviate congestion and other allergy symptoms. There are two types of nasal sprays: saline sprays and steroid sprays. Saline sprays, such as Ocean and Ayr, are simply saltwater solutions that can help moisten and clear the nasal passages. Steroid sprays, such as fluticasone (Flonase) and mometasone (Nasonex), contain corticosteroids that reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. Nasal sprays are effective at relieving congestion and runny nose, but may not be as effective at relieving itching and sneezing.
Decongestants
Decongestants are another type of OTC medicine for allergy symptoms. They work by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages, which can alleviate congestion. There are two types of decongestants: oral and nasal. Oral decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), can cause side effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, and should be used with caution. Nasal decongestants, such as oxymetazoline (Afrin), can be used for up to three days, but should not be used for longer than that, as they can cause rebound congestion. Decongestants are effective at relieving congestion, but may not be as effective at relieving other allergy symptoms.
Eye Drops
Eye drops are a type of OTC medicine for allergy symptoms that are specifically designed to relieve itchy, watery eyes. They work by reducing inflammation in the eyes and blocking the effects of histamine. There are many types of eye drops available, including antihistamine eye drops, such as ketotifen (Zaditor), and decongestant eye drops, such as naphazoline (Clear Eyes). Eye drops are effective at relieving itchy, watery eyes, but may not be as effective at relieving other allergy symptoms.
Conclusion
There are many OTC medicines available to help alleviate allergy symptoms. Antihistamines, nasal sprays, decongestants, and eye drops are all effective at relieving different allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, congestion, and watery eyes. It is important to read the labels and follow the instructions carefully when using these medicines. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your healthcare provider. With the right OTC medicine, you can enjoy the outdoors and breathe easier during allergy season.