Hay fever allergy symptoms can be treated with antihistamines. Learn about the best antihistamines for hay fever and other allergy symptoms.
Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a very common condition that affects people of all ages. It is an inflammation of the nose and throat caused by an allergic reaction to pollen, dust, or pet dander. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. Hay fever can be treated with over-the-counter medications or prescription drugs, but there are also some natural remedies that can help lessen the symptoms.
How do antihistamines work?
An antihistamine is a medication that helps to relieve allergy symptoms by blocking the histamine receptors in the body. Histamine is a chemical that is released during an allergic reaction and causes many symptoms, such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. By blocking the histamine receptors, antihistamines help to stop or reduce these symptoms.
What is the best antihistamine for hay fever?
While there is no cure for hay fever, there are treatments that can help lessen its symptoms. One such treatment is antihistamines. There are many different types of antihistamines available over-the-counter, but not all of them are effective for treating hay fever.
- Azelastine: Azelastine is a nasal spray that is used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergies, such as hay fever. It is a member of the antihistamine class of medications and works by blocking the effects of histamine, which is released during an allergic reaction. Azelastine may be used alone or in combination with other medications, such as nasal steroid sprays, to help control symptoms. It is available as both a prescription and over-the-counter medication.
- Olopatadine: Olopatadine (Patanol) is a medication that is used to treat itchy and red eyes. It is a type of antihistamine known as a histamine H1 receptor antagonist. Olopatadine works by blocking the effects of histamine, which is a chemical that is released during an allergic reaction. This helps to relieve the symptoms of allergies, such as itchy and red eyes.
Over-the-counter best antihistamine for hay fever:
- Loratadine: Loratadine is an over-the-counter medication used to treat allergies. It comes in the form of a tablet, liquid, or disintegrating tablet that dissolves in your mouth. Loratadine works by blocking histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. This helps to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.
- Cetirizine: Cetirizine is an antihistamine used to treat allergies. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance that causes the symptoms of allergy reactions. Cetirizine is available as a prescription or over-the-counter medication.
- Fexofenadine: Fexofenadine is a medication used to treat allergies. It is in a class of medications called antihistamines. Fexofenadine works by blocking the effects of histamine, which is a substance that is released during an allergic reaction. Fexofenadine comes as a tablet and liquid suspension to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without food.
How to choose the best antihistamines for hay fever?
Here are four factors to consider when choosing an antihistamine:
- Type of Allergy: Some people are allergic to pollen, and others are allergic to other insects. Each type of allergy requires a different type of antihistamine.
- Other Medications: If you take other medications, it’s important to check with your doctor before switching to antihistamines. Certain drugs can interact with certain antihistamines, which can lead to side effects or worse.
- Price: There’s no point in buying an expensive antihistamine if it doesn’t work. A cheap product that doesn’t work could cost you more in the long run.
- Taste: Some people are bothered by the taste of antihistamines, so it’s best to try them out before buying. This is especially true of the extended release types, which can be difficult to swallow and may make you feel nauseous.
How to Use Antihistamines:
- Take it as directed It’s important to follow the instructions on the label. Some antihistamines are taken by mouth, while others can be applied topically or taken sublingually.
- Take one with food If you have an upset stomach, you should take your antihistamine with food. This can help reduce the chance of your stomach turning to acid.
- If you’re taking antihistamines for seasonal allergies, it’s recommended that you take them before allergy season begins. This way, your body can get used to the medication and reduce any side effects.
Published on June 17, 2022 and Last Updated on June 17, 2022 by: Priyank Pandey
