Chronic allergies affect millions of people around the globe, and there’s no denying the discomfort they cause. A 2017 study published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology has found that 80 percent of those with seasonal allergies report moderate-to-severe symptoms that significantly impair their quality of life. But although allergies can’t be cured outright, those afflicted can take over-the-counter medications to alleviate some of the symptoms, which may include sneezing, runny nose, coughing and water eyes. According to Laura Moore, MD, allergist-immunologist at the Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Center of Alaska, allergy medications available today can be broken down into the three main categories: oral antihistamines, nasal steroids, and eye drops. Individuals who suffer from allergies may take one medication from each category (nasal steroid, eye drop, and oral antihistamine) at the same time, says Dr. Moore. However, you should never double up (i.e. use multiple nasal steroids together). If symptoms persist, it’s best to schedule an appointment with an allergist. You might require prescription treatment options and/or immunotherapy. But for most people, a regimen of over-the-counter allergy medications can help. Here’s what you need to know.
Oral Antihistamines
According to Moore, oral antihistamines can be good for combatting those common allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and watery/drippy nose and eyes. And fortunately, most people have no issue tolerating these medications. They can be taken daily or as needed. However, before popping a pill, make sure you look carefully to see if it could make you drowsy so you take it at the appropriate times. Here are the four main long-acting oral antihistamines available over-the-counter:
Claritin 24-Hour Allergy Tablets
Zyrtec Allergy Tablets
Xyzal Allergy 24Hour Tablets
Allegra Allergy 24Hour Tablets
Nasal Steroids
Suffering from congestion, sneezing fits, and a runny or itchy nose? Then consider reaching for the nasal steroids. These sprays are often more effective than oral steroids, though they can occasionally cause nasal burning in some users. And while these sprays tend to work best when taken daily, you can also use them on an as-needed basis. Finally, given the proximity to the tear duct, nasal steroids can sometimes help relieve eye irritations as well. Here are a few top options:
Flonase 24Hour Allergy Relief Nasal Spray
Flonase Sensimist 24Hour Allergy Relief Nasal Spray
If you’re wary of nasal sprays, Flonase Sensimist might be a good option for you. After all, it’s one of the more gentle versions on the market. Sensimist is also scent-free and practically drip-free as well. Similar to the regular Flonase product, this spray also blocks six inflammatory substances (histamine, prostaglandins, cytokines, tryptases, chemokines and leukotrienes). Hence, it does a great job combatting nasal congestion and sneezing along with itchy, watery eyes, and noses. Even better, Sensimist is also non-drowsy and provides 24-hour relief.
Nasacort Allergy 24Hour Nasal Spray
Rhinocort Allergy Nasal Spray
Eye Drops
Do your allergies only cause isolated eye irritations? If so, eye drops could be a good solution. You may also decide to try them if the aforementioned medications don’t curb your symptoms. Most eye drops rely on two main medications — Ketotifen and Naphazoline. Naphazoline can cause a tingling sensation, which some people find a tad uncomfortable. Here are a few solid options for over-the-counter eye drops:
