An allergy is a body’s reaction to a specific substance. This substance, plant pollen (or an allergen), invades the body and in some people, triggers their immune system to respond by releasing histamines and other chemicals that cause symptoms such as repetitive sneezing and itchy, watery eyes.
People may be allergic to different plant pollens that grow during different times of the year which is why they are referred to as seasonal allergies. Tree pollen is more prevalent in the spring. Grass pollen is around more in late spring and early summer. And, in late summer and early fall, weed pollen, which includes ragweed, takes over. In addition, mold and fungus spores are also more prevalent at certain times of the year and can play a role in seasonal allergies.
Antihistamines are medicines that are regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are used to treat allergies. They come in many forms, including tablets and liquids. Examples include diphenhydramine (Benadryl), fexofenadine (Allegra),and loratadine (Claritin). Many are available over-the-counter (OTC) and as generic medicines. They have different side effects, and some should not be used for children, especially under the age of two. It is important to read the Drug Facts label and follow the dosing instructions on the package. Some antihistamines may cause drowsiness and should not be taken if driving or working with heavy machinery.
Oral decongestants can also be purchased without a prescription to treat allergy symptoms. However, these medicines often contain a combination of an antihistamine and a medicine called pseudoephedrine(Sudafed). These combination products (e.g., Allegra D, Claritin D) are kept behind the pharmacy counter (and require identification to purchase) to prevent the illegal use in making methamphetamine—a powerful, highly addictive stimulant. Other medicines used to treat allergies are also available but must be prescribed by your doctor. Some decongestants come as a nasal spray. However, if they are used for more than a few days, your symptoms may get worse. So, always check the label or ask your pharmacist how to take it.
Other allergy medicines also come in the form of a nasal spray. For example, corticosteroids are used to treat nasal congestion by decreasing swelling inside the nose and sinuses. They are sprayed directly into the nose once or twice a day. They may cause stinging in the nose or nosebleeds. They are sold OTC or by prescription but should not be used for more than 2 months.
Severe allergies may require other treatments that need to be given by healthcare professionals .For example, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) contains specific amounts of a particular allergen. By gradually increasing the dose, the person develops immunity and tolerance to that allergen. A shot is usually given once a week for 2 to 3 months until a maximum dose is reached. Treatment may then continue monthly for about 3 to 5 years.
Another form of allergen immunotherapy is given as a tablet that is put under the tongue until it dissolves. These are used daily before and during pollen season. Treatment should start 3 to 4 months before allergy season. The first few doses need to be taken in front of a healthcare professional.
Here’s what you can do: If you or a family member have seasonal allergies, discuss treatment options with your doctor. If you decide to try an OTC product, read the Drug Facts label thoroughly. Look at the possible side effects and avoid driving or working with heavy machinery if drowsiness is a side effect. Learn how to take the medicine. If you have questions or cannot decide which medicine to take, ask to speak to the pharmacist. Do not take more medicine than instructed on the package label. After a few days, if symptoms do not get better or get worse, contact your doctor. Do not give any allergy medicine to a child, especially under the age of two, unless recommended by a doctor.
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Published July 29, 2024
