Antihistamines are the most commonly used treatment for allergies.
Antihistamines are medications that block the action of histamine, a chemical released by your body during an allergic reaction. Histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms associated with allergies, such as itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. By blocking histamine, antihistamines can help to relieve these symptoms.
Types of Antihistamines
Antihistamines come in various forms, including:
- Pills: These are taken orally and are a common choice for managing allergy symptoms.
- Liquids: Liquid antihistamines are often preferred for children or individuals who have difficulty swallowing pills.
- Nasal Sprays: These target nasal allergy symptoms, such as congestion and runny nose.
- Eye Drops: These are specifically designed to alleviate itchy, watery eyes caused by allergies.
Availability
Many antihistamines are available over-the-counter (OTC), meaning you can purchase them without a prescription. However, some antihistamines require a prescription from a doctor. It's important to talk to a healthcare professional to determine the best antihistamine for your specific allergy needs and to ensure it's safe for you, especially if you have other medical conditions or are taking other medications.
Considerations
While antihistamines are effective at relieving allergy symptoms, they don't cure allergies. They simply manage the symptoms. For long-term allergy relief, other treatments such as immunotherapy (allergy shots) might be considered. It's also important to identify and avoid your allergy triggers whenever possible.
