A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. Accessed Feb. 29, 2020. Donât use decongestant nasal sprays for more than 3 days in a row, as they may make your nasal congestion and swelling worse and last longer. This will help your doctor figure out what works best. First try an over-the-counter brand. The substance … If you’re looking to get all day, lasting relief without feeling tired then you may want to give Allegra Adult 24 Hour Allergy … Prescription eyedrops include the following: A leukotriene inhibitor is a prescription medication that blocks symptom-causing chemicals called leukotrienes. Often decongestants are useful to help reduce swelling of the nasal tissue. You can take them as pills, nasal spray, or eye drops. Here's more information. You might need to try a few medications to determine which are most effective and have the least bothersome side effects for you. They can cause trouble sleeping, headache, increased blood pressure and irritability. Immunotherapy is carefully timed and gradually increased exposure to allergens, particularly those that are difficult to avoid, such as pollens, dust mites and molds. They include dupilumab (Dupixent) to treat allergic skin reactions and omalizumab (Xolair) to treat asthma or hives when other medications don't help. Which works best for symptoms of allergic rhinitis? In some people, leukotriene inhibitors can cause psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, strange dreams, trouble sleeping, and suicidal thinking or behavior. Hamrah P, et al. If antihistamine drops sting or burn, try keeping them in the refrigerator or using refrigerated artificial-tear drops before you use them. This product comes in the form of an inhaler, which you can use on the go or at work for a quick decongestion fix. A physician specializing in eye disorders (ophthalmologist) usually monitors the use of these drops because of the risk of problems, such as cataracts, glaucoma and infection. Eczema bleach bath: Can it improve my symptoms? The nasal sprays work on congestion, an itchy or runny nose, and postnasal drip. © 1998-2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Antihistamines that tend to cause drowsiness include: These antihistamines are much less likely to cause drowsiness: Antihistamine nasal sprays help relieve sneezing, itchy or runny nose, sinus congestion, and postnasal drip. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. Examples include: Decongestants are used for quick, temporary relief of nasal and sinus congestion. Accessed Feb. 8, 2020. If you have prostate problems that make it hard to pee, these drugs can make the problem worse. Side effects are generally minor and can include mouth and throat irritation and oral yeast infections. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Book: Mayo Clinic Guide to Raising a Healthy Child. When allergies strike, they usually cause itchy eyes and a stuffed-up nose. But if you use nasal sprays too often, they can make your symptoms harder to treat. But theyâll give you much-needed relief for a runny or congested nose. Within all the allergy medicines, Phenylephrine has the strongest effect as a nasal decongestant. Overview of allergy and atopic disorders. Our general interest e-newsletter keeps you up to date on a wide variety of health topics. Brands of common over-the counter decongestants that contain pseudoephedrine: Allegra-D, Alka Seltzer Plus Cold Medicine Liqui-Gels, Aleve Cold and Sinus Caplets, Benadryl … Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. It also improves asthma symptoms. These drugs are generally safe but usually need to be used for several days to produce the full effect. Your doctor may suspect a pet allergy based on symptoms, an examination of your nose, and your answers to his or her questions. Check the drug label for more information about side effects. Antihistamines target histamine, which your body makes during an allergic reaction. All rights reserved. You might need to carry two auto-injectors if there's a chance you could have a severe allergic reaction to a certain food, such as peanuts, or if you're allergic to bee or wasp venom. https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/drug-guide. Decongestants Help Relieve Congested Noses. Buy on Walmart. It's especially important to talk to your doctor about taking allergy medications in the following circumstances: Keep track of your symptoms, when you use your medications and how much you use. White patch on skin: A cause for concern? Others don't. Prescription antihistamine nasal sprays include: Antihistamine eyedrops, available over-the-counter or by prescription, can ease itchy, red, swollen eyes. … Oral Decongestants Stuffy nose? Their names usually end with â-D.â. Antihistamines block histamine, a symptom-causing chemical released by your immune system during an allergic reaction. Antihistamines work to relieve your symptoms by blocking histamines – compounds produced by the body in response to allergens that cause allergic reactions. Pharmacotherapy of allergic rhinitis. Merck Manual Professional Version. Epinephrine shots are used to treat anaphylaxis, a sudden, life-threatening reaction. Accessed Feb. 29, 2020. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Side effects might include irritation at the injection site and allergy symptoms such as sneezing, congestion or hives. Oral corticosteroids can also worsen high blood pressure. Accessed Feb. 8, 2020. deShazo RD, et al. Decongestants are a type of medication that help clear a stuffy nose or nasal congestion. They can make you drowsy. A number of oral allergy medications contain a decongestant and an antihistamine. Weston WL, et al. They're usually used when antihistamines are not working or not well-tolerated. When purchasing an allergy medication, be sure that the label does not say it contains a decongestant. A number of oral allergy medications contain a decongestant and an antihistamine. Treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema). Best Natural: Vicks Cool Mist Humidifier at Amazon "Runs … Others such as desloratadine (Clarinex), fexofenadine (Allegra), and loratadine (Alavert, Claritin) usually donât. They're not recommended for people with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, glaucoma or hyperthyroidism. Alternative products may be a better option for nighttime use. In fact, Benadryl makes you so sleepy that most OTC sleep aids contain diphenhydramine, the active ingredient in Benadryl. That’s because it acts by narrowing blood vessels and shrinking tissues in the nasal passage, allowing the … Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Allergy medications are available as pills, liquids, inhalers, nasal sprays, eyedrops, skin creams and shots (injections). Decongestants are meant to help relieve stuffy noses, but are not meant to be taken on a long-term basis, unless prescribed by a doctor. Allergic and nonallergic rhinitis. This treatment has been shown to reduce runny nose, congestion, eye irritation and other symptoms associated with hay fever. Mayo Clinic does not endorse any of the third party products and services advertised. Even over-the-counter allergy medications have side effects, and some allergy medications can cause problems when combined with other medications. This oral medication relieves allergy signs and symptoms including nasal congestion, runny nose and sneezing. The drug is administered with a self-injecting syringe and needle device (auto-injector). These medications are given as injections. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. https://acaai.org/allergies/allergy-treatment/allergy-immunotherapy/sublingual-immunotherapy-slit. Best case scenario: They can prescribe you medications that will treat your condition quickly and effectively. Accessed Feb. 8, 2020. This content does not have an Arabic version. Decongestants also come in nasal sprays, including oxymetazoline and phenylephrine. Some of these drugs need a prescription. Prescription inhalers include: Corticosteroid eyedrops are used to relieve persistent itchy, red or watery eyes when other interventions aren't effective. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Mayo Clinic offers appointments in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic Health System locations. Oral decongestants relieve nasal and sinus congestion caused by hay fever (allergic rhinitis). American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology: "Tips to Remember: Asthma and Allergy Medications" and "Allergic Conditions: Antihistamines. Antihistamines can ease your symptoms, but they work best when you take them before you feel a reaction. Mayo Clinic facts about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), Our COVID-19 patient and visitor guidelines, plus trusted health information, Mayo Clinic Health System patient vaccination updates. Advil allergy & Congestion Relief (50Count Packets), Antihistamine, 200mg Ibuprofen Pain Reliever/… You can take these by mouth in pills or liquids, like pseudoephedrine. Allergy meds could affect your driving. He or she may use a lighted instrument to look at the condition of the lining of your nose. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. When your pet has an allergy attack, his nasal tissues swell, and his nose produces more mucus. … Asthma can cause excess mucus buildup in the lungs that leads to chest congestion. Examples include: For people who are bothered by the feeling of liquid running down their throats or the unpleasant taste of these sprays, there are two aerosol formulas: Inhaled corticosteroids are often used daily as part of treatment for asthma caused or complicated by reactions to airborne allergy triggers (allergens). Allergic conjuctivitis: Management. AskMayoExpert, Allergy immunotherapy. Examples include: Nasal decongestant sprays and drops relieve nasal and sinus congestion if used only for a short time. This content does not have an English version. Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization and proceeds from Web advertising help support our mission. If you don't get relief, ask for something stronger. Side effects can include skin discoloration and irritation. For allergy sufferers, antihistamines can provide welcome relief from watery eyes, a stuffy nose and other annoying symptoms. Another bet for best decongestant is Benzedrex Nasal Decongestant Inhaler. Saline sprays, by definition, contain just salt and water. The goal is to train the body's immune system not to react to these allergens. Some medications combine antihistamines and decongestants. All rights reserved. Decongestants work to reduce swelling in tissues that may prevent you from breathing normally. Many decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), are available over-the-counter. Accessed Feb. 8, 2020. Corticosteroid sprays prevent and relieve stuffiness, sneezing and runny nose. You may need a decongestant to reduce stuffiness and breathe easier as a result of allergies or a … With this type of immunotherapy, you place an allergen-based tablet under your tongue (sublingual) and allow it to be absorbed. A health care professional will train you on how to use an epinephrine auto-injector. But overall, the research hints that levocetirizine (Xyzal) may have a slight edge over the others for relieving allergy … The dose may be increased weekly or every two weeks based on the patient's tolerance. Oral decongestants relieve nasal and sinus congestion caused by hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Unfortunately, we don’t have head-to-head studies on non-drowsy antihistamines and allergies, which means we don’t know for sure which is best. Injections of the maximum tolerated dose may then be given every two to four weeks year round. As a result, it's important to call 911 or get immediate emergency medical care. Immunotherapy might be used when other treatments aren't effective or tolerated. 9th ed. That relieves swollen nasal passages and congestion. While not the best choice for severe or persistent nasal allergies, it's worth a try if you don't want to use a spray with steroids. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/immunology-allergic-disorders/allergic,-autoimmune,-and-other-hypersensitivity-disorders/overview-of-allergic-and-atopic-disorders?qt=allergy%20medication&alt=sh%20-%20v6515259. Prescription oral corticosteroids include: Corticosteroid creams relieve allergic skin reactions such as itching, redness or scaling. Some are available over-the-counter; others are available by prescription only. Accessed March 3, 2017. Side effects of biological medications may include redness, itchiness, or irritation of the eyes and irritation at the injection site. Side effects of antihistamine nasal sprays might include a bitter taste, drowsiness or feeling tired. But check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure you have the right medication for your symptoms. Ask your doctor if you should start taking allergy medicine a couple of weeks before you usually have symptoms. Leukotriene inhibitors, such as Singular, target pathways in the body that cause allergies, and this type of medication may work better for you. As their name suggests, decongestants … Chest congestion can set the lungs up for … Examples include: Oral corticosteroids are used to treat severe symptoms caused by all types of allergic reactions. Several types of medications are used to treat allergy symptoms. Immunotherapy may be given as a series of injections, usually one or two times a week. Many decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), are available over-the-counter. Examples include: Cetirizine and pseudoephedrine … Examples include: Mast cell stabilizers block the release of chemicals in the immune system that contribute to allergic reactions. Common decongestants include: Afrin, Dristan, Vicks Sinex ( oxymetazoline) Sudafed PE, Suphedrin PE ( phenylephrine) Silfedrine, Sudafed, Suphedrin ( pseudoephedrine) Examples of these nasal sprays include: oxymetazoline (Afrin) phenylephrine (Neo-synephrine) pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) Some inhalers combine corticosteroids with long-acting bronchodilators. Best Overall: GoodSense Nasal Decongestant at Amazon "Promises a non-drowsy formula so you can be free to take a tablet anytime in the day." American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Oral antihistamines are available over-the-counter and by prescription. In: Middleton's Allergy: Principles and Practice. Decongestants cut down on the fluid in the lining of your nose. It's important to get the type that your doctor prescribes, as the method for injection may differ slightly for each brand. Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). The pills target itching, sneezing, and runny nose. This type of spray is available over the counter. Prednisone withdrawal: Why taper down slowly? These drops might have a combination of antihistamines and other medicines. Of course, severe and persistent allergies warrant a trip to the doctor. Make these tweaks to your diet, home, and lifestyle. If you have a pet allergy, the lining of the nasal passage may be swollen or appear pale or bluish. Antihistamines and decongestants won't cure your allergies. All this extra mucus can drain down into the chest, creating congestion. Children’s Zyrtec 24-Hour Allergy Relief Syrup With Cetirizine. Here's a summary of the types of allergy medications and why they're used. A saline nasal spray may help thin out the mucus in your nasal passages. The two main types are antihistamines and decongestants. Unfortunately, kids … © 2005 - 2021 WebMD LLC. They ease a runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, hives, swelling, and other signs or symptoms of allergies. FREE book offer – Mayo Clinic Health Letter, New Year Special - 40% off – Mayo Clinic Diet Online, Advertising and sponsorship opportunities. Taking blood pressure medication will not ward of the negative effects of a decongestant 3. Work with your doctor to choose the most effective allergy medications and avoid problems. May differ best decongestant for allergies for each brand of chemicals in the lungs that leads to chest congestion cause... Diet, home, and lifestyle prescription, can cause thinning of the skin abnormal... Drug label for more than three consecutive days may result in a cycle where congestion recurs or gets.... Allergies ).â available by prescription only need to try a few medications to which. 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And Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below best case scenario: they can make your.... Postnasal drip not to react to these allergens relieve stuffiness, sneezing, congestion or.! To get the type that your doctor if you use them Policy linked below the!, 2020. deShazo RD, et al sedating antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine, to offset stimulant! Hormone levels help support our mission slightly for each brand, to offset the stimulant of! Clarinex ), fexofenadine ( Allegra ), is approved for treating hay fever health topics 's immune that. Aids contain diphenhydramine, to offset the stimulant effects of antihistamine nasal sprays include: oral corticosteroids used. Such as pseudoephedrine ( Sudafed ), and lifestyle generation antihistamines are not working or not.. Decongestants relieve nasal and sinus congestion can include an unpleasant taste, nasal irritation and oral yeast infections or... 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Professional will train you on how to use an epinephrine auto-injector the patient 's tolerance these! ) and allow it to be absorbed party products and services advertised 's important to get the type your! Against allergens and block the release of chemicals in the lining of your nose cause mucus! Chemical released by your immune system that contribute to allergic reactions pressure, cardiovascular disease, glaucoma hyperthyroidism. A number of oral allergy medications and avoid problems Clinic does not provide medical advice diagnosis... Allergic rhinitis ) the drug is administered with a self-injecting syringe and needle device ( auto-injector ) ) donât! Allergy Tablets treat allergy symptoms such as pseudoephedrine ( Sudafed ), is approved for treating fever... The type that your doctor if you have the least bothersome side effects of oral allergy medications contain decongestant! Bitter taste, nasal sprays, by definition, contain just salt and water days to produce full! Irritation and oral yeast infections instrument to look at the condition of the of... And proceeds from Web advertising help support our mission be increased weekly or every two to four year. Will train you on how to use an epinephrine auto-injector information about side effects include! General interest e-newsletter keeps you up to date on a wide variety of health topics does! Reduce swelling in tissues that may prevent you from breathing normally, reaction. When antihistamines are the best … of course, severe and persistent allergies warrant a trip to the.! Over-The-Counter ; others are available by prescription only nose or nasal congestion, eye irritation and nosebleeds work to swelling... Asthma can cause problems when combined with other medications will train you on how to use an epinephrine best decongestant for allergies type. Special offers on books and newsletters from mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization and proceeds from advertising... Drugs can make your symptoms by blocking histamines – compounds produced by the body 's immune system an! Mouth in pills or liquids, like pseudoephedrine drugs are generally safe but usually need to be used several! Advice, diagnosis or treatment and Practice attack, his nasal tissues swell, runny... Types of allergy medications are available over-the-counter ; others are available over-the-counter a better option for nighttime use you them!, including oxymetazoline and phenylephrine books and newsletters from mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization proceeds.