It's late summer and fall is just around the corner, but if you're an allergy sufferer, it's currently mold season with ragweed season rolling in fast. Fortunately, allergy medicine is better than ever, with a variety of effective options to keep your symptoms under control.
Antihistamines
These medications block histamine, the chemical that causes symptoms of allergic reactions, from reaching certain cells. Nasal sprays can help with sneezing and congestion, eye drops can relief red and itchy eyes, and pills or liquids can help relieve symptoms all over the body, including hives. Some antihistamines (such as Benadryl/diphenhydramine) are known to cause drowsiness, but several popular over-the-counter options like Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra are less likely to make you sleepy.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids relieve symptoms by reducing inflammation, according to the Mayo Clinic. Over-the-counter corticosteroid nasal sprays like Nasonex and Flonase are popular and effective options for seasonal allergy relief. Corticosteroids can also be prescribed as eye drops, pills, liquids, and inhalers.
Mast cell stabilizers
This class of medications blocks the release of certain chemicals that trigger allergic reactions, and are generally recommended after antihistamines, according to the FDA. The nasal spray Cromolyn is available without a prescription, and several mast cell stabilizer eye drops can be prescribed.
Your doctor or pharmacist can recommend allergy medications to meet your specific needs.
