Best Allergy Medicine For Itchy Eyes And Nose
Allergies can make life difficult, especially when they cause itchy eyes and a runny nose. It's important to find the right allergy medicine to treat these symptoms so that you can go about your day without feeling uncomfortable. In this article, we'll explore some of the best allergy medicines for itchy eyes and nose.
1. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a common type of allergy medicine that work by blocking the release of histamine in the body. Histamine is a chemical that is released in response to an allergen, causing symptoms such as itchy eyes and a runny nose. Antihistamines can be found in both prescription and over-the-counter medications, and come in a variety of forms such as tablets, capsules, and liquids.
Some popular over-the-counter antihistamines include:
- Claritin (loratadine)
- Zyrtec (cetirizine)
- Allegra (fexofenadine)
If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may prescribe a stronger antihistamine such as:
- Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
- Atarax (hydroxyzine)
2. Nasal Steroids
Nasal steroids are another type of allergy medicine that can be effective in treating itchy eyes and nose. They work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, which can help to alleviate symptoms such as congestion and a runny nose. Nasal steroids are typically available only by prescription, and come in the form of sprays.
Some common nasal steroids include:
- Flonase (fluticasone)
- Nasonex (mometasone)
- Rhinocort (budesonide)
3. Decongestants
Decongestants are another type of allergy medicine that can help to alleviate itchy eyes and nose. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which can reduce congestion and make it easier to breathe. Decongestants can be found in both prescription and over-the-counter medications, and come in the form of tablets, capsules, and liquids.
Some popular over-the-counter decongestants include:
- Sudafed (pseudoephedrine)
- Afrin (oxymetazoline)
If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may prescribe a stronger decongestant such as:
- Claritin-D (loratadine/pseudoephedrine)
- Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine)
4. Eye Drops
If your itchy eyes are your primary symptom, eye drops can be a great way to get relief. Eye drops can help to reduce inflammation and itching in the eyes, making it easier to go about your day without feeling uncomfortable. Eye drops are available both over-the-counter and by prescription, and come in a variety of formulations.
Some popular over-the-counter eye drops include:
- Visine (tetrahydrozoline)
- Zaditor (ketotifen)
If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may prescribe a stronger eye drop such as:
- Patanol (olopatadine)
- Elestat (epinastine)
Conclusion
If you're suffering from itchy eyes and nose due to allergies, there are many effective medicines available to help you find relief. Antihistamines, nasal steroids, decongestants, and eye drops are all great options to consider. Talk to your doctor to determine which medicine is right for you based on your specific symptoms and medical history.