Best Allergy Medicine To Take For Dog Allergies
If you are one of the millions of Americans who suffer from dog allergies, you know how frustrating and uncomfortable it can be. Symptoms like sneezing, itching, and watery eyes can make it difficult to enjoy time with your furry friend. However, there are many allergy medicines on the market that can help alleviate these symptoms and allow you to spend more time with your dog.
1. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are one of the most common types of allergy medicine for dogs. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is a chemical that is released by the body in response to an allergen. Some common antihistamines include:
- Benadryl
- Zyrtec
- Claritin
- Allegra
It is important to note that some antihistamines can cause drowsiness, so it is recommended to speak with your doctor before taking them.
2. Decongestants
Decongestants are another type of allergy medicine that can be helpful for dog allergies. They work by shrinking the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which can help relieve congestion and stuffiness. Some common decongestants include:
- Sudafed
- Afrin
- Neo-Synephrine
It is important to note that decongestants can cause side effects like increased heart rate and blood pressure, so they should only be taken under the guidance of a doctor.
3. Nasal corticosteroids
Nasal corticosteroids are a type of allergy medicine that can be helpful for dog allergies. They work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, which can help relieve symptoms like sneezing and itching. Some common nasal corticosteroids include:
- Flonase
- Rhinocort
- Nasonex
It is important to note that nasal corticosteroids can take several days to start working, so they should be used on a regular basis for best results.
4. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a type of allergy treatment that involves exposing the body to small amounts of the allergen over time. This can help the body build up a tolerance to the allergen and reduce the severity of symptoms. Some common types of immunotherapy for dog allergies include:
- Allergy shots
- Sublingual immunotherapy
It is important to note that immunotherapy can take several months to start working, and it is not effective for everyone.
Conclusion
If you suffer from dog allergies, there are many allergy medicines available that can help alleviate your symptoms and allow you to spend more time with your furry friend. Antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, and immunotherapy are all effective treatments for dog allergies. However, it is important to speak with your doctor before taking any medication to ensure that it is safe and effective for you.