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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