How To Treat Seasonal Allergies

Learn how to manage and alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies with these tips. From natural remedies to medical treatments, we've got you covered. Say goodbye to sneezing, itching, and congestion and enjoy the great outdoors again.

Allergies are a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide. They occur when the immune system overreacts to a normally harmless substance, such as pollen, pet dander, or certain foods. This overreaction can lead to a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening reactions. Allergy treatments aim to alleviate these symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected by allergies. 

What are Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are a common type of allergy that affects millions of people worldwide. They occur when the immune system reacts to airborne allergens, such as pollen from trees, grass, and weeds. This reaction can lead to symptoms such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and sinus pressure. Seasonal allergies typically occur during specific times of the year when pollen levels are highest, usually in the spring, summer, and fall.

Types of Over-the-Counter Medicines for Allergy Symptoms

There are several types of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that can help alleviate allergy symptoms. Some of the most common include:

• Antihistamines: These medications work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the immune system during an allergic reaction that causes symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose. Common OTC antihistamines include diphenhydramine (Benadryl), loratadine (Claritin), and cetirizine (Zyrtec).

• Decongestants: These medications help to relieve nasal congestion by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. Common OTC decongestants include pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine).

• Nasal corticosteroids: These are nasal sprays that help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. Common OTC nasal corticosteroids include fluticasone (Flonase) and triamcinolone (Nasacort).

• Combination medications: Some OTC allergy medications combine an antihistamine with a decongestant to provide relief from multiple symptoms. Examples include loratadine-pseudoephedrine (Claritin-D) and cetirizine-pseudoephedrine (Zyrtec-D).

It's essential to follow the recommended dosages and directions on the medication label and consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Allergy Shots: Process and Average Cost

Allergy shots, also known as allergen immunotherapy, are a long-term treatment option for individuals with severe allergies. They work by gradually exposing the immune system to small amounts of an allergen, helping it become less sensitive over time. This can lead to a reduction in allergy symptoms and sometimes even prevent the development of new allergies.

The process for getting allergy shots typically involves the following steps:

• Allergy testing: A healthcare provider will perform allergy tests (such as skin tests or blood tests) to determine the specific allergens causing an individual's symptoms.

• Customized treatment plan: Based on the results of the allergy tests, the healthcare provider will develop a customized treatment plan that includes the specific allergens to be administered in the allergy shots.

• Build-up phase: During this phase, the individual will receive small amounts of the allergen in gradually increasing doses. The shots are usually given once or twice a week for several months.

• Maintenance phase: Once the effective dose has been reached, the frequency of the shots is reduced to once every two to four weeks. This phase typically lasts for three to five years or longer, depending on the individual's response to treatment.

The average cost of allergy shots can vary widely, depending on factors such as the type and number of allergens, the duration of treatment, and insurance coverage. In general, the cost can range from $1,000 to $3,000 per year, with some insurance plans covering a portion of the cost.

Topical Allergy Treatments for Nose, Eyes, and Skin

In addition to oral medications and allergy shots, there are several topical treatments available to help alleviate allergy symptoms affecting the nose, eyes, and skin.

• Nasal saline rinses: Rinsing the nasal passages with a saline solution can help to clear out allergens and reduce inflammation. This can be done using a neti pot, squeeze bottle, or nasal irrigation device.

• Antihistamine eye drops: These eye drops work by blocking the action of histamine in the eyes, helping to relieve symptoms such as itching, redness, and watering. Common OTC antihistamine eye drops include ketotifen (Zaditor) and pheniramine (Visine-A).

• Steroid creams and ointments: These topical treatments can help to reduce inflammation and itching caused by allergic skin reactions, such as contact dermatitis or insect bites. Common OTC steroid creams and ointments include hydrocortisone (Cortizone-10) and triamcinolone (Kenalog).

As with any medication, it's essential to follow the recommended dosages and directions on the product label and consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Allergy treatments aim to alleviate the symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected by allergies. There are various options available, including seasonal allergy treatments, over-the-counter medications, allergy shots, and topical remedies. Each person's allergy treatment plan will depend on the severity of their symptoms and the specific allergens causing their reactions. By working closely with a healthcare professional, individuals with allergies can develop a tailored treatment plan that helps them manage their symptoms effectively and enjoy a better quality of life.