Common Allergies and You

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is estimated to affect 50 million people in the United States throughout each of the various seasons. Don’t let the names fool you, those are just complex names for your typical, seasonal allergies. Rather your symptoms are to the extreme or not, we have all had an experience with allergies at some point. Sneezing, stuffy/runny nose, watery eyes and itching of the nose, eyes or the roof of the mouth are the most common symptoms. Spring and summer seem to be prime times for the flowers to bloom and also for our allergies to flair. If your doctor hasn’t prescribed you a medicine to deal with it or perhaps you don’t feel it’s bothersome enough to worry with a prescription – there are over the counter medicines you can purchase to help take on your allergies and bring some relief.

Luckily there are a great deal of over the counter remedies available. You may be surprised to find that seasonal allergy medications come in many different forms including pills, oral liquid, nasal sprays, eye drops, and even throat sprays. You may be able to eliminate some of those options immediately depending on how you prefer to take your medicine. Be sure to read over what the medicine claims it will help with. For example, most throat sprays aren’t going to be as helpful to watery eyes. Find an option that seems to cover all of your most prevalent symptoms.

Even across the different forms of over the counter medications, you will find many different types that might further complicate your decision. Antihistamines, decongestants, expectorants, and cough suppressants are some of the most popular.

· Antihistamines are possibly the best option to go with if you are experiencing multiple allergy issues. They work by drying up and blocking histamine which is what your body releases during allergic reactions. They also help dry up any extra secretions you may be encountering because of your allergies. Antihistamines can help dry up a runny nose, watery eyes, and especially put the halt on sneezing.

· Decongestants are used to relieve nasal congestion. They work by narrowing the swollen blood vessels that make breathing difficult during an allergic reaction. This helps your nose open up and you to be able to breathe better. Decongestants aren’t necessarily going to help with other symptoms you may be experiencing.

· Expectorants are made for chest congestion relief. They work by thinning and loosening the mucus that causes the congestion.

· Cough Suppressants are best for dry coughs that aren’t helping to expel any mucus. They work by blocking your cough reflex.
If you’re having trouble deciding which to go with, it’s always a good idea to talk to your pharmacist. He/she can better explain your options and help you make an educated decision. If you’re not feeling any relief after 3 or 4 days, it is best to make a visit to your doctor. They will most likely prescribe you a medication that will help to stop your symptoms. Your doctor may also have other recommendations for you to help keep allergies at bay in the future. Don’t forget to take your FreeRxPlus card with you when going to fill your prescriptions so you can be sure to get the absolute best price. Visit our site today to learn more and get your own card for free at www.freerxplus.com.