Energy drinks contain over the recommended daily sugar intake with one 16-ounce can containing 62 grams containing more than twice this amount, potentially posing serious health concerns such as dehydration.
Caffeine blocks the adenosine pathways that induce sleepiness, prompting more of the “feel good” chemicals to be released quickly, providing you with an energy boost. Unfortunately, not everyone can tolerate caffeine.
Non-Drowsy Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a go-to treatment for allergies. They work by blocking histamine’s effects – the chemical released during an allergic response which causes symptoms such as congestion and itchy eyes – with OTC antihistamines being safe for adults and children to use, usually tablets, liquids, nasal sprays or chewables available. Many allergy medications also contain decongestants to relieve congestion by drying up mucus in your nose or throat and decreasing swelling.
Antihistamines fall into two main categories: drowsy and non-drowsy. Drowsy antihistamines, commonly marketed as “PM” medication due to their ability to induce sleep, have sedating properties which may cause dry mouth, blurred vision and urinary retention as side effects. Antihistamines should not be taken by those taking sedatives or tranquilizers and alcohol should be avoided as well. Non-drowsy antihistamines do not produce the same drowsy effect and may be better for people who need to remain alert during their day, and are less likely to interact with other medications than regular ones – with Claritin being the most popular OTC non-drowsy antihistamine brand (containing loratadine); others such as Allegra and Zyrtec contain cetirizine respectively.
At times, finding the appropriate antihistamine may prove challenging. Everyone experiences their medication differently; sometimes taking an antihistamine with decongestants provides faster relief from allergy symptoms and is available both OTC and via prescription.
Non-drowsy antihistamines like loratadine, cetirizine and fexofenadine can provide effective relief from seasonal allergies or perennial ones that occur year-round. Their duration typically lasts 12-24 hours. Available as tablets, gelcaps or chewables they should also contain pseudoephedrine like that found in Sudafed; thus these antihistamines should only be taken when needed or as directed on the label; long term usage or high doses could become habitually addictive; therefore long term or frequent usage should be avoided at any cost.
Nasal Sprays
There are various over-the-counter and prescription nasal sprays available to treat allergy symptoms. Most sprays contain steroids that reduce swelling and inflammation in your nasal and sinus passageways. They may also decrease runny nose and sneezing by blocking mast cell release that causes these symptoms. Decongestant sprays relieve congestion by narrowing blood vessels to relax the tissues in your nose and sinuses so they drain properly; they should only be used temporarily as symptoms arise – overuse can lead to rebound congestion requiring ever more medication in an effort to find relief from symptoms; overuse could result in rebound congestion which requires ever greater doses to find relief of symptoms relief; overdoing can even result in rebound congestion wherein you start taking more and more medication in an effort find relief from symptoms; therefore rebound congestion must be used only occasionally; overuse could even result in rebound congestion when trying unsuccessfully find relief from symptoms;
Saline sprays, composed of purified or boiled water, salt, and baking soda, help moisten dry nasal passages while thin secretions. Saline can also help combat pollen irritants like pollen allergies; antihistamine nasal sprays may work well when used together for added relief from allergy symptoms.
Steroid nasal sprays such as Flonase help reduce inflammation in your nasal and sinus passageways, much like oral steroids do. Furthermore, these nasal sprays also decrease runny nose and reduce sneezing by blocking mast cells that trigger them.
Non-steroidal, antihistamine nasal sprays like Claritin and Zyrtec help soothe runny noses by suppressing histamine production by the body, the chemical responsible for allergies. Meanwhile, non-steroidal decongestants like Sudafed can constrict blood vessels within your nasal passageways to provide congestion relief as well as alleviate sneezing.
OTC nasal sprays may provide quick relief, yet proper usage should always be observed to avoid side effects. If any adverse reactions arise while using nasal sprays, consult with an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.
When using your nasal spray, lean slightly forward while holding one nostril closed and spray directly into your sinus area, away from your eyes. Do not tilt back your head, lie down or blow your nose directly after spraying as this could spread medicine to your mouth and throat. After each use, clean off and replace cap; if sharing with family members make sure all applicators are cleaned after each use so as to reduce infection spread.
Generic Medications
Generic medications make up the bulk of prescriptions dispensed in the US, accounting for around 60%. To meet Food and Drug Administration standards for approval, generics must comply with several criteria including quality of ingredients used and absorption rate; dosage form such as pills, inhalers or liquid; safety, efficacy strength as well as any specific uses approved by the FDA; cost reduction through reimbursement policies across 29 countries1 may also make generics an attractive option.1 A recent study by Vogler et al.1 explored pricing and reimbursement practices related to generic drugs across 29 countries1.1
Discuss which allergy medication would best meet your needs with your physician. Be sure to mention any drug allergies as well as potential cross-reactivity issues with foods or medicines taken concurrently.
See an Allergist
If your allergies are severe and over-the-counter medicines don’t provide relief, seeking professional assistance may help. Depending on the symptoms associated with them, healthcare providers may recommend specific allergy medicines in pill or liquid form, nasal sprays or eye drops – these will all block histamine, the chemical released during allergic reactions that causes symptoms like sneezing, runny noses, itchy eyes or skin rashes. Furthermore, healthcare professionals can identify potential allergy triggers as well as give advice about how best to avoid them.
Allergists (sometimes known as immunologists) are physicians specializing in treating allergies, asthma and immune system disorders. Their training equips them to identify and treat all forms of allergies or immune deficiency conditions including those caused by genetic inheritance.
At your appointment, an allergist will gather information regarding your medical history and symptoms that have manifested themselves since childhood. They may conduct diagnostic tests such as skin prick tests, blood tests or oral challenge testing; their findings will then help develop a treatment plan tailored specifically for you.
Once your allergies have been identified, an allergist will prescribe the appropriate medicine to address your allergy and asthma symptoms. They will also discuss ways to avoid triggers while providing lifestyle recommendations; some forms of immunotherapy might even be recommended as preventive measures against further symptoms in the future.
Allergies can lead to chronic sinus infections, recurrent coughs, skin rashes or other serious medical conditions. If you’re struggling with allergy medication and looking for relief, our allergists at the Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia may be able to provide assistance.
Call now for an appointment to stop sneezing, itching, scratching and breathing through your mouth! We provide services in Atlanta and throughout Georgia – call or book online now to make scheduling convenient – we accept many insurance plans! Looking forward to meeting you soon! We strive to give our patients an excellent experience; should any aspect disappoint please inform us and we’ll strive to rectify it immediately!
