Do you suffer from a scratchy throat, uncontrollable sneezing or itchy watery eyes?
These allergy symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and cause you misery.
While we rely on our immune system to defend against pathogens, an overactive immune system attacks factors that don't directly harm us. For instance, some people have an allergic reaction to nuts, dust mites or pollen whilst others don't. This inflammatory reaction is the basis of an allergy.
There are many different triggers to an allergic reaction. Many factors can influence seasonal allergies - such as the weather, where you live, humidity, rainfall amounts and the environment you are dealing with overall.
Even though you don’t have control over external factors like the weather, there are several ways you can find relief. Find the treatment that is most suitable for your allergy, budget and lifestyle.
1. Antihistamines
This is one of the most common medications used to reduce the severity of allergic reactions and symptoms including sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes. Antihistamines can be used to relieve symptoms of hay fever, hives and some food allergies.
2. Decongestants
Decongestants work quickly to relieve a stuffy or blocked nose. These sprays can have side-effects including increased heart rate, blood pressure, and may damage the lining of the nose if used too often or for too long.
3. Allergy shots
These therapeutic injections typically are given regularly over some time, from a few weeks up to 5 years. Allergy shots can be effective for acute life-threatening allergies to insects, allergic asthma and seasonal allergies.
Allergy shots also present a risk in that the shot itself may cause a serious allergic reaction. However, this risk has been reduced through ongoing improvements in dosing schedules and allergy extracts.
Please see your doctor for professional and individualised recommendations.
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References
Harvard Medical School (2019). “3 Ways to Manage Allergies”. Harvard Health Publishing. Sourced from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/3-ways-to-manage-allergies