If avoiding allergens isn’t enough to keep your symptoms in check, there are many effective medications available:
Over-the-Counter Antihistamines: Medications like cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin) block the effects of histamine, reducing symptoms like sneezing and itching.
Decongestants: These help relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure but should be used short-term to avoid side effects.
Nasal Sprays and Eye Drops: These can target specific symptoms like itchy eyes or nasal inflammation.
For more severe allergies, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications or even allergy shots (immunotherapy).
Natural Remedies for Seasonal Allergies
Some people prefer natural remedies to manage their seasonal allergies. While these may not be as effective as medication for everyone, they can still provide relief:
Saline Nasal Rinses: Rinsing your nasal passages with a saline solution (like with a neti pot) helps remove pollen and mucus from your sinuses.
Herbal Supplements: Butterbur and quercetin are natural compounds that may reduce inflammation and histamine production, though it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using them.
Local Honey: Some believe consuming local honey can help desensitize the body to pollen. While scientific evidence is limited, many people find it beneficial.
Immunotherapy for Long-Term Relief
If seasonal allergies significantly affect your quality of life, immunotherapy may be a good option.
Allergy Shots: These injections gradually expose your body to increasing amounts of allergens, helping you build tolerance over time.
Sublingual Immunotherapy: This is a more convenient alternative to allergy shots, where you place drops containing allergens under your tongue.
