Spring is quickly approaching, and for many, it comes with sneezing, bloodshot eyes, congestion, and a runny nose. If you are one of the millions who develop seasonal allergies each year, then you should know about the many prescription and over-the-counter medications available to relieve your suffering.

3 Types of Medications Used to Treat Allergies

1. Antihistamines

Most allergy sufferers are familiar with at least one antihistamine; they come in all shapes and sizes. For instance, brands like Clarinex™ and Xyzal™ are oral medications used to treat watery eyes, runny noses, sneezing, hives, and itching; while Patanol™ and Optivar™ are eye drops prescribed to relieve itchy and red eyes. There are also those—like Zyrtec™ and Benadryl™—that are available in pill, liquid, and dissolvable tablet form.

2. Decongestants

If your allergies cause congestion, your doctor will probably prescribe a decongestant in addition to your antihistamines. They will help shrink the swollen nasal tissues and blood vessels in your nose to relieve congestion, mucous secretion, and redness. Like antihistamines, this medication is also available in a variety of forms, including pills, liquids, nasal sprays, and eye drops. Two common over-the-counter brands you might know are Sudafed™ and Afrin™.

3. Combinations

Sometimes a combination medication, containing both an antihistamine and decongestant, is a more practical solution for treating allergies. If you are suffering from numerous allergy symptoms, this type might be more beneficial as some do not just block the effects of histamines; they also prevent mast cells in the body from releasing any more chemicals that are known to induce allergies.

If you are expecting allergies this spring, take preventative measures and see your doctor about effective medication options. Then, you can have your prescription on file at Columbia Hickory Pharmacy in Columbia, MD, ready to fill whenever symptoms start to become an issue. You can also contact this drug store today at (410) 964-6409 to ask about their over-the-counter allergy medications, or visit their website to learn more about their available services.