Treatment Options For Hay Fever

Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen. Its common symptoms include frequent sneezing or coughing, runny or congested nose, watery, red and itchy eyes.

A vast range of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are available for the treatment of hay fever symptoms. And a combination of two or three dugs may work better in some patients than just a single one. Your treatment option should be based on how badly hay fever has affected you and what are your bothersome symptoms. It also depends upon the urgency of your need to get well soon. If you have to go for a job interview or take up an exam, you will need the finest treatment to recover soon. Some popular treatment options for hay fever are discussed below.

Decongestants – These are available in the form of sprays and tablets. Decongestant sprays are usually recommended for short term use. They give you amazing relief from nasal blockage but if you use them for longer duration they will worsen your condition further. Hence do not use decongestant sprays for more than 5 days. The extended use of these sprays cause rebound congestion. Decongestant tablets clear your nasal congestion but are not suitable for people with high blood pressure, glaucoma, diabetes, heart problems, hyperthyroidism, and urinary retention. These people should avoid decongestant tablets.

Antihistamines – These are commonly available in the form of tablets and are crucial treatment of hay fever. It is advantageous to use this option of treatment because taking one tablet in a day can treat the symptoms in the eyes, nose, throat and ear. Antihistamines are an excellent treatment option for hay fever. Older antihistamines may cause sleepiness but this side effect is not seen when you use the newer antihistamines.

Corticosteroids – Corticosteroid nasal sprays are very effectual long term treatment and are used for treatment as well as prevention of hay fever. Doctors prescribe oral corticosteroids to treat very severe hay fever symptoms. They are recommended only for short term use. Long term use of oral corticosteroids has been associated with cataracts, osteoporosis, and muscle weakness.

Desensitization treatment – In this  treatment an increased amount of allergens are introduced into the body of patients especially those with serious symptoms. This therapy can produce some extremely strong reactions hence is prohibited in Britain.

You are recommended not to give any medications to your children without consulting your doctor.