The Best Allergy Medicine For Post Nasal Drip
Post Nasal Drip (PND) is a common problem that affects millions of people in the United States. It occurs when excess mucus accumulates in the back of the throat and causes irritation, coughing, and a runny nose. The most common causes of PND are allergies, sinus infections, and colds. Allergy-induced PND is caused by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. Luckily, there are several effective allergy medicines that can help relieve the symptoms of PND. In this article, we will discuss the best allergy medicine for post nasal drip.
1. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a common type of allergy medicine that can help relieve the symptoms of PND. They work by blocking histamine, a chemical in the body that causes allergic reactions. Antihistamines are available over-the-counter and by prescription. Some common over-the-counter antihistamines include cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), and fexofenadine (Allegra). Prescription antihistamines include levocetirizine (Xyzal) and desloratadine (Clarinex). Antihistamines can cause drowsiness, so it is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully and avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking them.
2. Decongestants
Decongestants are another type of allergy medicine that can help relieve the symptoms of PND. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and congestion. Decongestants are available over-the-counter and by prescription. Some common over-the-counter decongestants include pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine (Sudafed PE). Prescription decongestants include oxymetazoline (Afrin) and phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine). Decongestants can cause side effects such as increased heart rate, insomnia, and anxiety, so it is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully and avoid taking them for more than a few days.
3. Nasal Steroids
Nasal steroids are a type of allergy medicine that can help relieve the symptoms of PND. They work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, which can help reduce the amount of mucus that is produced. Nasal steroids are available by prescription only. Some common nasal steroids include fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), and budesonide (Rhinocort). Nasal steroids can cause side effects such as nasal irritation, nosebleeds, and headache, so it is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully and avoid using them for more than a few weeks.
4. Leukotriene Inhibitors
Leukotriene inhibitors are a type of allergy medicine that can help relieve the symptoms of PND. They work by blocking leukotrienes, chemicals in the body that cause inflammation and swelling. Leukotriene inhibitors are available by prescription only. Some common leukotriene inhibitors include montelukast (Singulair) and zafirlukast (Accolate). Leukotriene inhibitors can cause side effects such as headache, nausea, and diarrhea, so it is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully and report any side effects to your doctor.
Conclusion
Post Nasal Drip can be a frustrating and uncomfortable problem, but there are several effective allergy medicines that can help relieve its symptoms. Antihistamines, decongestants, nasal steroids, and leukotriene inhibitors are all effective options for treating PND. If you are experiencing symptoms of PND, talk to your doctor about which allergy medicine is right for you.
