Managing allergy symptoms involves a combination of strategies, including minimizing exposure to allergens, using over-the-counter and prescription medications, and exploring natural remedies.
Reduce Exposure to Allergens
- Stay indoors on dry, windy days: Allergens like pollen are more prevalent during these conditions.
- Avoid lawn mowing, weed pulling, and other gardening chores: These activities stir up allergens.
- Control indoor allergens: Regularly vacuum and dust, use air filters, and keep pets out of bedrooms to reduce exposure to dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens.
Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medications
- Oral antihistamines: These medications help relieve sneezing, itching, a stuffy or runny nose, and watery eyes. Examples include cetirizine (Zyrtec), fexofenadine (Allegra), and loratadine (Claritin).
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays: These medications improve nasal symptoms by reducing inflammation.
- Cromolyn sodium nasal spray: This medication helps prevent the release of histamine and other chemicals that trigger allergy symptoms.
- Oral decongestants: These medications can help relieve nasal congestion.
Natural Remedies
- Saline nasal irrigation: Using a neti pot or squeeze bottle to rinse out your sinuses with a saline solution can help flush out allergens.
- Butterbur: This herb may help reduce the frequency and severity of allergy symptoms.
- Bromelain: This enzyme found in pineapple may have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Acupuncture: Some people find that acupuncture can help relieve allergy symptoms.
- Probiotics: Taking probiotics may help boost the immune system and reduce allergy symptoms.
- Honey: Local honey may help build up immunity to local pollen allergens.
Consult a Healthcare Professional
If your allergy symptoms are severe or don't improve with self-care measures, see an allergist or other healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment options.
