Allergy
Relief Medicine Overview:
Natural, Over-the-Counter and Prescription
With millions of
Americans suffering from at least one allergy, it’s only logical
that there would be a huge demand for allergy relief medicine. Of
course, each allergy relief medicine only works on a certain percentage
of the population. In addition, many folks will have a preference
for a natural allergy relief
medicine because of fewer side effects, easier dosage, safer ingredients,
and so on.
Therefore, allergy
relief medicine comes in many different forms and strengths. The
following is a partial list of allergy relief medicine options separated
into categories of natural, over-the-counter, and prescription:
Natural
Allergy Relief Medicine
Herbal remedies:
Marshmallow root, butterbur, vitamin C, chili and cayenne pepper,
nettle, and angelica
Acupuncture: Proponents
of acupuncture say that allergies block the body’s energy
flow. During the time of seasonal
allergies, the acupuncturist would treat allergy symptoms; outside
of allergy season, the acupuncturist would work to strengthen the
immune system. Both of these methods are meant to restore the body’s
energy flow and health.
Neti Nasal Pot:
The Neti Nasal Pot is used to wash the nasal cavities with a saline
solution. This practice rinses congestion and allergens from the
sinuses, which promotes easier breathing and helps prevent sinus
infections.
Over-the-Counter
Allergy Relief Medicine
Antihistamines:
These counteract the histamines released during an allergic reaction
which can help with many allergy
symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itching, and hives. However,
antihistamines may cause drowsiness and other side effects.
Decongestants:
This common allergy relief medicine reduces swelling in nasal passages
and mucus membranes by narrowing blood vessels. Side effects may
include nervousness, drying of nasal membranes, and higher blood
pressure.
Prescription
Allergy Relief Medicine
Corticosteroids:
Available as eye drops, pills, inhalers, and creams, corticosteroids
decrease inflammation caused by allergies. Side effects include
weight gain and increased blood pressure.
Epinephrine: This
allergy relief medicine comes in a package that can be self-injected
and is designed for patients who may experience a deadly anaphylactic
allergy attack.
Allergy shots for
immunotherapy: Immunotherapy gradually exposes a patient to the
substance he or she is allergic to. It is believed that, over time,
a patient will become desensitized to the allergen. Immunotherapy
allergy shots may take years to become effective and only appear
to be somewhat beneficial for a small group of allergies.
When it comes to
choosing the right allergy relief medicine for your needs, keep
in mind that you find the best results come from a combination of
allergy remedies. Natural, drug-free allergy relief medicine is
often easily combined with other natural therapies to provide relief
without side effects.
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