If you or a loved one has allergies, you know how important it is to control it. Allergy symptoms cause you to feel unwell or make it difficult to get on with the day, but over-the-counter medicine deals with the symptoms effectively. Below is a brief guide to choosing the right medication.

What Causes Allergies?

Allergies occur when someone’s immune system becomes sensitive to substances that are harmless to most people. Common allergens include dust, pollen, pet dander, certain foods, and insect stings. 

The immune system's hypersensitive reaction causes symptoms such as inflammation, stomach problems, breathing difficulties, and a congested sinus system. The most serious reaction is anaphylaxis, which can’t be treated by over-the-counter medicine and requires emergency treatment.

What Are Some Over-the-Counter Options?

Fortunately, over-the-counter medication can relieve most symptoms of allergies. One of the most common groups is antihistamines. Histamine is a chemical that causes symptoms and is released by the immune system when you have an allergic reaction, and these medications block it.

The medication relieves symptoms such as swelling, a runny nose, hives, and itchy eyes. The antihistamines diphenhydramine and chlorpheniramine cause drowsiness, so ask your pharmacist for another option if you want to avoid that. Mast cell stabilizers are a type of drug that may be used if antihistamines are not working.

Corticosteroids treat inflammation caused by allergies and are effective for severe symptoms of different allergic reactions. Talk to your pharmacist if you need to use these drugs long term, as they may cause side effects, like osteoporosis and high blood sugar.

Decongestants treat nasal and sinus congestion, but they should not be taken by people with high blood pressure, glaucoma, cardiovascular disease, or hyperthyroidism. Inform your pharmacist if you have any of those conditions, and also bear in mind that these medications can make it difficult to sleep.

How Should You Take Them?

These different medications can be taken in various ways, including eye drops, nasal sprays, pills, liquids, and skin creams. You may be able to choose a type based on preference, depending on which are available for your particular allergy. For example, some people don’t like the taste of nasal spray in their throat, or they find eye drops cause dry eyes.

Whether you need over-the-counter medicine or prescription refills, Pack Pharmacy in Cincinnati, OH, offers efficient and affordable service. This trusted drugstore has served the area since 1949, and they pride themselves on building bonds with the community. Call (513) 871-7770 to speak to a member of their team or visit them online to learn more.