For an allergy cough, over-the-counter antihistamines are often the best first line of treatment. These medications work by blocking histamine, a substance that your body releases during an allergic reaction that can cause coughing.
Understanding Allergy Cough and Treatment
An allergy cough is usually caused by your body’s reaction to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. When you encounter these allergens, your body releases histamine, leading to symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose.
How Antihistamines Help
Antihistamines can be effective in relieving an allergy cough because they directly target the root cause by preventing histamine from triggering the allergic reaction in the airways that causes the cough.
Recommended Over-the-Counter Antihistamines
According to the provided reference, two over-the-counter antihistamines that are particularly helpful for allergy cough relief without causing drowsiness are:
- Fexofenadine (Allegra): This medication is effective and unlikely to make you feel tired.
- Loratadine (Claritin): Similar to fexofenadine, this antihistamine can provide relief from allergy cough without causing sleepiness.
| Medication | Active Ingredient | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Allegra | Fexofenadine | Non-drowsy, effective relief from allergy cough |
| Claritin | Loratadine | Non-drowsy, effective relief from allergy cough |
Other Helpful Measures
While antihistamines are a great first step, combining them with other measures can improve effectiveness:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids helps to thin mucus, making it easier to cough up.
- Avoid Allergens: Minimizing your exposure to allergens can reduce cough frequency.
- Use a Humidifier: Humidified air can help soothe irritated airways.
When to See a Doctor
If your allergy cough persists, worsens despite using over-the-counter medication, or is accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty breathing or fever, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate advice and treatment.
