'Tis the season!Prescription nasal steroid sprays such as fluticasone or Nasonex are the most effective single medication in relieving allergy symptoms. The absorption into bloodstream is so low (about 0.03%) that long-term adverse effects do not occur. However, they therefore have to be used every day during allergy season and can take a week or two to start working.
Antihistamine pills work by blocking allergy reactions. Benadryl works very well, but makes most people feel drowsy. As a rule, the more effectively an antihistamine works in relieving symptoms, the more likely it is to cause drowsiness. That being said, over-the-counter Zyrtec is stronger than Claritin.
Decongestants such as phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine may also help, and they are often added to over-the-counter remedies so check the labeling carefully! Some people have an elevation in blood pressure with them, so use with caution if you have heart disease.
Do not use decongestant nose sprays (Afrin, Neo-Synephrine, 4-Way, etc.) for over 3-5 days. Rebound is common with these, which means you can develop dependency on it because you get more congested every time you stop using it.
NasalCrom nose spray is very safe and effective if used 3-4 times a day every day for mild allergic nose symptoms.
Naphcon-A eye drops are a great anti-allergy eye drop for itchy watery eyes, and went over-the-counter a few years ago.
Allergy de-sensitization shots improve allergy in around 30% of folks who go through the every 2-4 week shots for about 2-3 years.
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