For many people, antihistamines and decongestants are the go-to solution for allergy relief. These medications can temporarily ease symptoms, but long-term use can come with unwanted side effects and health risks.
Antihistamines
It’s very common to reach for antihistamines when allergy symptoms arise, and while they can ease symptoms temporarily, it doesn’t come without side effects. One of our previous blogs outlined the short-term and long-term effects of frequent antihistamine use.
There are two different versions of antihistamines – first generation and second generation. First generation medications like Benadryl® are often used for more severe reactions. These can cause side effects like drowsiness, headache, dry mouth, constipation, and more.
Second generation antihistamines are those that are normally taken daily, like Zyrtec®. The side effects can be headaches, upset stomach, dizziness, among others. Allergy sufferers must weigh the risks of short-term symptom relief and dealing with other potential side effects.
Decongestants
Allergies can cause congestion, and decongestant pills and nasal sprays are often recommended to reduce the headaches and stuffy nose that comes along with allergies. An article by the Mayo Clinic explains the downsides of decongestants in the long run.
Decongestant pills can raise blood pressure and blood sugar, as well as cause nervousness, insomnia, and anxiety. It can also aggravate underlying conditions, including glaucoma, seizures, heart conditions, and urinary conditions.
Nasal decongestant sprays can help you feel almost immediate relief, but they can only be used short term. Using them for more than four days can make congestion even worse – a condition called rebound rhinitis.
Alternatives
What both antihistamines and decongestants have in common is that they’re temporary fixes – they don’t treat the cause of the underlying allergy. They bring short-term relief, but that can also come with unwanted side effects.
The alternative: treating the root cause of allergy with immunotherapy. Allergychoices recommends allergy drop immunotherapy, which trains the body to not react when exposed to problematic allergens.
After allergy testing, exam, and history, allergy drops are created custom to each patient with tiny amounts of the problem allergens identified in testing. The amount is gradually and safely increased throughout treatment, so that the body learns the allergens aren’t actually harmful.
After successful treatment, symptoms can be reduced – or eliminated – and the need for medications like antihistamines and decongestants is reduced. The only side effects reported from allergy drops are mild throat and mouth itching or stomach upset.
Tired of feeling miserable? Find a provider near you who offers treatment.