Seasonal allergies are quite common, and many people suffer from it. Although seasonal allergy symptoms can disrupt a daily routine, some symptoms can be fatal. However, to get seasonal allergy relief, medications are available that will help ease the symptoms.

How are allergies caused?
Typically, allergies result from the immune system reacting adversely to a trigger. The immune system is responsible for protecting the body from illness-causing invaders such as bacteria and viruses.

Some common allergens include

• pollen,
• dust,
• eggs and nuts,
• bee stings,
• medications,
• pet dander, and
• latex.

Which is the best seasonal allergy relief medicine?
There are many medicines that offer relief from seasonal allergy, we have discussed the best of them herein. Read on to know more about the best seasonal allergy relief medicines you can get.

Antihistamines
These are usually effective for people suffering from hay fever. Histamines are substances that are produced by the body to help fight invaders. Antihistamines help counter histamine’s effects on the body. Antihistamines are prescription seasonal allergy medications that are also available over the counter. They are available in various forms such as liquids, eyedrops, tablets, nasal sprays, and creams. Antihistamines such as Chlor-Trimeton and Benadryl do alleviate allergy symptoms, but may also cause drowsiness. It is recommended to avoid driving after consuming these antihistamines. Newer antihistamines from brands like Clarinex, Claritin, Allegra, Alavert, and Zyrtec are less likely to cause drowsiness and also have fewer side effects.

Common side effects to watch out for are

• uneasy feeling,
• dry mouth,
• headache, and
• dry nose.

Decongestants
Decongestants can be useful in seasonal allergy relief as they help clear stuffy nose and sinuses. They help in shrinking the blood vessels in the nose that in turn help open up the nasal passages. Decongestants are available in the form of sprays or pills and are available over the counter. Sudafed, Propagest, Dimetapp, and Entex are few widely used decongestants while Flonase and Nasacort are popular nasal sprays.

Side effects of decongestants taken through the mouth or as nasal sprays are

• dizziness,
• nervousness,
• headaches,
• dry mouth,
• difficulty in sleeping,
• sneezing, and
• temporary stinging in the nose.

Nasal corticosteroids
Nasal corticosteroids help relieve seasonal allergy symptoms by curbing inflammation caused due to an allergen. However, these are prescription seasonal allergy medications and have a few side effects, which are as follows:

• nasty smell in the nose
• nose irritation
• bad taste in the mouth
• nosebleeds

Talk to your doctor about your allergy to get an evaluation of your health and be prescribed the best seasonal allergy relief medicine. It is the best way to find relief faster!