Best Allergy Medicine For Post Nasal Drip And Sore Throat
Post nasal drip and sore throat are common symptoms of allergies. These symptoms can be caused by a variety of allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. The good news is that there are many allergy medicines available that can provide relief. In this article, we will discuss the best allergy medicine for post nasal drip and sore throat.
1. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are the most common type of allergy medicine. They work by blocking the release of histamine, which is a chemical that causes allergy symptoms such as post nasal drip and sore throat. Antihistamines come in both over-the-counter and prescription strength.
Over-the-counter antihistamines such as Claritin, Zyrtec, and Allegra are effective in treating mild to moderate allergy symptoms. They are non-drowsy and provide relief for up to 24 hours. Prescription strength antihistamines such as Xyzal and Levocetirizine are more effective in treating severe allergy symptoms and can provide relief for up to 48 hours.
2. Decongestants
Decongestants are another type of allergy medicine that can provide relief for post nasal drip and sore throat. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and congestion. Decongestants come in both over-the-counter and prescription strength.
Over-the-counter decongestants such as Sudafed and Afrin are effective in treating mild to moderate allergy symptoms. They provide relief for up to 12 hours. Prescription strength decongestants such as Flonase and Nasonex are more effective in treating severe allergy symptoms and can provide relief for up to 24 hours.
3. Nasal Steroids
Nasal steroids are a type of allergy medicine that can provide relief for post nasal drip and sore throat. They work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and congestion. Nasal steroids come in both over-the-counter and prescription strength.
Over-the-counter nasal steroids such as Nasacort and Flonase are effective in treating mild to moderate allergy symptoms. They provide relief for up to 24 hours. Prescription strength nasal steroids such as Nasonex and Rhinocort are more effective in treating severe allergy symptoms and can provide relief for up to 48 hours.
4. Mast Cell Stabilizers
Mast cell stabilizers are a type of allergy medicine that can provide relief for post nasal drip and sore throat. They work by preventing the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause allergy symptoms. Mast cell stabilizers come in both over-the-counter and prescription strength.
Over-the-counter mast cell stabilizers such as Cromolyn are effective in treating mild to moderate allergy symptoms. They provide relief for up to 12 hours. Prescription strength mast cell stabilizers such as Tilade and Intal are more effective in treating severe allergy symptoms and can provide relief for up to 24 hours.
5. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a type of allergy medicine that can provide long-term relief for post nasal drip and sore throat. It works by exposing the body to small amounts of allergens over time, which helps the body build up a tolerance to the allergen. Immunotherapy is available in the form of allergy shots and sublingual tablets.
Allergy shots are given once or twice a week for several months, and then the frequency is reduced to once a month. Sublingual tablets are taken daily under the tongue. Immunotherapy can provide relief for up to several years.
Conclusion
Post nasal drip and sore throat are common symptoms of allergies. There are many allergy medicines available that can provide relief. Antihistamines, decongestants, nasal steroids, mast cell stabilizers, and immunotherapy are all effective in treating post nasal drip and sore throat. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best allergy medicine for your specific symptoms.