For the lucky ones, seasonal allergies are something they never have to worry about.
For those less fortunate, seasonal allergies are something to dread and have to deal with like clockwork each year.
If you’re in the second camp, here are some tips to help make seasonal allergies more bearable.
Also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, these allergies cause inflammation of the nose and eyes, resulting in sneezing, a runny, itchy and blocked nose, as well as itchy and watery eyes.
There are two main ways you can treat the symptoms of seasonal allergies: preventative and reactive medications.
These are medications that you can start taking when you expect to experience allergies, but before you start showing symptoms.
The main way to prevent suffering from allergies is by taking a daily antihistamine during the season (or seasons) when you usually encounter symptoms. This medication helps to prevent the effects of histamines, the chemicals released by your body when it has an allergic reaction, therefore reducing (and hopefully eliminating) your allergy symptoms.
Antihistamines are divided into two groups, first- and second-generation.
First-generation antihistamines are typically more powerful, but can come with sedative side effects that make you feel drowsy. They can also have other side effects, such as a dry mouth.
Second-generation antihistamines are a little less powerful, but won’t make you drowsy, and have fewer and less noticeable side effects.
Seasonal allergies can sneak up on you, giving you no option but to treat the symptoms with reactive medications once you already have them. Note that you can also still take antihistamines, it just may take a few hours to feel their effects.
Reactive medications for allergies are decongestants, which focus on allergy symptoms such as the watering eyes, stuffy nose, and sneezing. They work by narrowing your blood vessels, which decreases the amount of fluid that makes its way into the lining of your nose.
Another popular treatment option is that of nasal sprays such as BecloClear and Steroclear. Also known as steroid nasal sprays or corticosteroid nasal sprays, these medicines are designed to reduce the inflammation and swelling in the nose caused by allergies. Lower-strength sprays are available over the counter at pharmacies, but high-strength options are available via prescription.
Keep in mind, it can take a few days for a nasal spray to take effect, so it can help to use a decongestant and/or antihistamine in the meantime.
If you struggle with red, watery, and itchy eyes when experiencing allergies, eye drops such as Cromo-Fresh can help to avoid and treat unwelcome symptoms, and keep your eyes clear and comfortable.
One of the best treatment options for seasonal allergies is to combine both the preventative and reactive medicines for a powerful and effective relief from symptoms. Combined medications fuse antihistamines with decongestants to offer the benefits of both in a single pill.
One option is to use a combination of antihistamines to prevent and treat allergies, as well as a decongestant to help clear up symptoms. This is the thinking and the science behind Maxiclear Cold & Nasal Relief, which combines a non-drowsy antihistamine with an effective decongestant, so you can go about your day as if you were one of those lucky ones who doesn’t have to think about the seasons at all.
While staying indoors during the pollen season and taking all the precautions in the world are one option, preventative and reactive medications are often a little more realistic than hiding from the world each year. As always, chat to your doctor about the best option for you before starting on any medications.
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Disclamer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not substitute advice from your healthcare professional. If symptoms persist or you require specialist advice, please consult your healthcare professional.
