Which Allergy Medicine Works Best For Post Nasal Drip
If you suffer from allergies, you know how miserable they can make you feel. One of the most common symptoms of allergies is post nasal drip, which can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including a runny nose, coughing, and sore throat. Fortunately, there are many different allergy medicines available that can help relieve the symptoms of post nasal drip. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best allergy medicines for post nasal drip.
First Generation Antihistamines
First generation antihistamines, such as Benadryl and Chlor-Trimeton, are some of the oldest and most effective allergy medicines available. These medications work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical that is released by the immune system in response to allergens. Histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms of allergies, including post nasal drip.
While first generation antihistamines are effective at relieving the symptoms of post nasal drip, they can also cause drowsiness and other side effects. For this reason, they are not recommended for use during the day or when driving or operating heavy machinery.
Second Generation Antihistamines
Second generation antihistamines, such as Claritin and Zyrtec, are newer allergy medicines that are less likely to cause drowsiness and other side effects than first generation antihistamines. These medications also work by blocking the action of histamine.
While second generation antihistamines are generally considered safer than first generation antihistamines, they may not be as effective at relieving the symptoms of post nasal drip in some people. If you find that second generation antihistamines are not working well for you, you may want to talk to your doctor about trying a different medication.
Nasal Corticosteroids
Nasal corticosteroids, such as Flonase and Nasacort, are medications that are sprayed into the nose to reduce inflammation and relieve the symptoms of post nasal drip. These medications work by reducing the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body, which can help reduce the symptoms of allergies.
Nasal corticosteroids are generally considered safe and effective for treating post nasal drip, but they may take several days to start working. In addition, they may cause some side effects, such as nosebleeds or dryness in the nose.
Decongestants
Decongestants, such as Sudafed, are medications that help relieve congestion by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose. While decongestants can be effective at relieving the symptoms of post nasal drip, they can also cause side effects, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Decongestants should be used with caution, especially if you have high blood pressure or heart problems. They should also not be used for more than a few days, as they can cause rebound congestion if used for too long.
Conclusion
If you suffer from post nasal drip, there are many different allergy medicines available that can help relieve your symptoms. First and second generation antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and decongestants are all effective options, but they may not work for everyone. If you are having trouble finding a medication that works for you, talk to your doctor or allergist. They can help you find the right medication to relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life.