Best Over The Counter Medicine For Pollen Allergies
Spring is a beautiful season, but it can also be a nightmare for people who suffer from pollen allergies. Pollen is a fine powder released by plants and trees during the spring, and it can cause a range of symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and more. If you're looking for relief from pollen allergies, there are several over-the-counter medicines that can help. In this article, we'll explore the best over the counter medicine for pollen allergies that can provide you with the relief you need.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are medications that block the effects of histamine, a chemical produced by the body in response to allergens like pollen. Antihistamines are available in different forms, including tablets, liquids, and nasal sprays. Some of the best over the counter antihistamines for pollen allergies include:
- Cetirizine: This is an oral medication that provides relief from allergy symptoms for up to 24 hours. It's available in tablets, liquids, and chewable tablets.
- Loratadine: This is another oral medication that provides relief from allergy symptoms for up to 24 hours. It's available in tablets, liquids, and dissolvable tablets.
- Chlorpheniramine: This is an older antihistamine that's available without a prescription. It can cause drowsiness, so it's best to take it at night.
- Azelastine: This is a prescription nasal spray that can provide relief from allergy symptoms. It's effective against both nasal and eye symptoms.
Nasal Decongestants
Nasal decongestants are medications that shrink swollen nasal tissues, which can help relieve nasal congestion caused by pollen allergies. Nasal decongestants are available in different forms, including tablets, liquids, and nasal sprays. Some of the best over the counter nasal decongestants for pollen allergies include:
- Oxymetazoline: This is a nasal spray that provides relief from nasal congestion for up to 12 hours. It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully to avoid rebound congestion.
- Phenylephrine: This is an oral medication that provides relief from nasal congestion. It's available in tablets and liquids.
- Pseudoephedrine: This is another oral medication that provides relief from nasal congestion. It's available in tablets and liquids, but it's behind the pharmacy counter and requires a photo ID to purchase.
Mast Cell Stabilizers
Mast cell stabilizers are medications that prevent the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause allergy symptoms. Mast cell stabilizers are available in different forms, including nasal sprays and eye drops. Some of the best over the counter mast cell stabilizers for pollen allergies include:
- Cromolyn sodium: This is a nasal spray that can provide relief from nasal symptoms caused by pollen allergies. It's also available in eye drop form for eye symptoms.
- Nedocromil: This is another medication that's available in both nasal spray and eye drop form. It can provide relief from both nasal and eye symptoms.
Conclusion
If you're looking for relief from pollen allergies, there are several over-the-counter medicines that can help. Antihistamines, nasal decongestants, and mast cell stabilizers are all effective at relieving allergy symptoms caused by pollen. However, it's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication to make sure it's safe for you and won't interact with any other medications you're taking. With the right medication and proper precautions, you can enjoy the beauty of spring without suffering from pollen allergies.