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Oct
14
Managing Allergies During Pregnancy
Filed Under Medications | Leave a Comment
Cindy Heller asked:
Rhinitis during pregnancy can be due to allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, or non-allergic rhinitis. If the woman has had allergic rhinitis prior to pregnancy, this could worsen, stay the same, or even improve. This change in symptoms may be dependent upon many factors, including the presence of seasonal allergens and increase in pregnancy hormones.
Non-allergic rhinitis in pregnancy may also be due to an increase in pregnancy hormones, leading to nasal congestion, runny nose and post nasal drip. This is called “rhinitis of pregnancy”. The symptoms may mimic allergies, but since they are non-allergic in nature, do not respond to anti-histamines.
The pregnant woman with rhinitis may be concerned about the safety of medications during pregnancy, and therefore avoid taking medications.
If avoidance of allergic triggers is not possible or successful, medications may be needed to control symptoms.
Diagnosis of Allergic Rhinitis During Pregnancy
Allergy testing includes skin testing or blood tests, called a RAST. In general, allergy skin testing is not done during pregnancy, given the small chance of anaphylaxis which may occur. Anaphylaxis during pregnancy, if severe, could result in a decrease in blood and oxygen to the uterus, possibly harming the fetus. Therefore, allergy testing is usually deferred during pregnancy, although a RAST would be a safe alternative if the results are needed during pregnancy.
Safety of Allergy Medications During Pregnancy
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), no drugs are considered completely safe in pregnancy. This is because no pregnant woman would want to sign up for a medication safety study while she is pregnant. Therefore, the FDA has assigned risk categories to medications based on use in pregnancy.
Pregnancy category “A” medications are medications in which there are good studies in pregnant women showing the safety of the medication to the baby in the first trimester. There are very few medications in this category, and no asthma medications.
Category “B” medications show good safety studies in pregnant animals but there are no human studies available.
Pregnancy category “C” medications may result in adverse effects on the fetus when studied in pregnant animals, but the benefits of these drugs may out weight the potential risks in humans.
Category “D” medications show clear risk to the fetus, but there may be instances in which the benefits outweigh the risks in humans. And finally, category “X” medications show clear evidence of birth defects in animals and/or human studies and should not be used in pregnancy.
Before any medication is taken during pregnancy, the doctor and patient must have a risk/benefit discussion. This means that the benefits of the medication should be weighed against the risks - and the medication should only be taken if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Treatment of Rhinitis During Pregnancy
Nasal saline. Rhinitis of pregnancy tends not to respond to anti-histamines or nasal sprays. This condition seems to respond temporarily to nasal saline (salt water), which is safe to use during pregnancy (it is not actually a drug). Nasal saline is available over the counter, is inexpensive, and can be used as often as needed. Generally 3 to 6 sprays are placed in each nostril, leaving the saline in the nose for up to 30 seconds, and then blowing the nose.
Anti-histamines. Older anti-histamines, such as chlorpheniramine and tripelennamine, are the preferred agents to treat allergic rhinitis during pregnancy, and are both category B medications. Newer anti-histamines such as over-the-counter loratadine (Claritin/Alavert and generic forms) and prescription cetirizine (Zyrtec) are also pregnancy category B medications.
Decongestants. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, many generic forms) is the preferred oral decongestant to treat allergic and non-allergic rhinitis during pregnancy, although should be avoided during the entire first trimester, as it has been associated with infant gastroschisis. This medication is pregnancy category C.
Medicated nasal sprays. Cromolyn nasal spray (NasalCrom, generics) is helpful in treating allergic rhinitis if it is used before exposure to an allergen and prior to the onset of symptoms. This medication is pregnancy category B and is available over the counter. If this medication is not helpful, one nasal steroid, budesonide (Rhinocort Aqua), recently received a pregnancy category B rating (all others are category C), and therefore would be the nasal steroid of choice during pregnancy.
Immunotherapy. Allergy shots can be continued during pregnancy, but it is not recommended to start this treatment while pregnant. Typically the dose of the allergy shots is not increased, and many allergists will cut the dose of the allergy shot by 50 percent during pregnancy. Some allergists feel that allergy shots should be stopped during pregnancy, given the risk of anaphylaxis and possible danger to the fetus as a result. Other than anaphylaxis, there is no data showing that the allergy shots themselves are actually harmful to the fetus.
Rhinitis during pregnancy can be due to allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, or non-allergic rhinitis. If the woman has had allergic rhinitis prior to pregnancy, this could worsen, stay the same, or even improve. This change in symptoms may be dependent upon many factors, including the presence of seasonal allergens and increase in pregnancy hormones.
Non-allergic rhinitis in pregnancy may also be due to an increase in pregnancy hormones, leading to nasal congestion, runny nose and post nasal drip. This is called “rhinitis of pregnancy”. The symptoms may mimic allergies, but since they are non-allergic in nature, do not respond to anti-histamines.
The pregnant woman with rhinitis may be concerned about the safety of medications during pregnancy, and therefore avoid taking medications.
If avoidance of allergic triggers is not possible or successful, medications may be needed to control symptoms.
Diagnosis of Allergic Rhinitis During Pregnancy
Allergy testing includes skin testing or blood tests, called a RAST. In general, allergy skin testing is not done during pregnancy, given the small chance of anaphylaxis which may occur. Anaphylaxis during pregnancy, if severe, could result in a decrease in blood and oxygen to the uterus, possibly harming the fetus. Therefore, allergy testing is usually deferred during pregnancy, although a RAST would be a safe alternative if the results are needed during pregnancy.
Safety of Allergy Medications During Pregnancy
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), no drugs are considered completely safe in pregnancy. This is because no pregnant woman would want to sign up for a medication safety study while she is pregnant. Therefore, the FDA has assigned risk categories to medications based on use in pregnancy.
Pregnancy category “A” medications are medications in which there are good studies in pregnant women showing the safety of the medication to the baby in the first trimester. There are very few medications in this category, and no asthma medications.
Category “B” medications show good safety studies in pregnant animals but there are no human studies available.
Pregnancy category “C” medications may result in adverse effects on the fetus when studied in pregnant animals, but the benefits of these drugs may out weight the potential risks in humans.
Category “D” medications show clear risk to the fetus, but there may be instances in which the benefits outweigh the risks in humans. And finally, category “X” medications show clear evidence of birth defects in animals and/or human studies and should not be used in pregnancy.
Before any medication is taken during pregnancy, the doctor and patient must have a risk/benefit discussion. This means that the benefits of the medication should be weighed against the risks - and the medication should only be taken if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Treatment of Rhinitis During Pregnancy
Nasal saline. Rhinitis of pregnancy tends not to respond to anti-histamines or nasal sprays. This condition seems to respond temporarily to nasal saline (salt water), which is safe to use during pregnancy (it is not actually a drug). Nasal saline is available over the counter, is inexpensive, and can be used as often as needed. Generally 3 to 6 sprays are placed in each nostril, leaving the saline in the nose for up to 30 seconds, and then blowing the nose.
Anti-histamines. Older anti-histamines, such as chlorpheniramine and tripelennamine, are the preferred agents to treat allergic rhinitis during pregnancy, and are both category B medications. Newer anti-histamines such as over-the-counter loratadine (Claritin/Alavert and generic forms) and prescription cetirizine (Zyrtec) are also pregnancy category B medications.
Decongestants. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, many generic forms) is the preferred oral decongestant to treat allergic and non-allergic rhinitis during pregnancy, although should be avoided during the entire first trimester, as it has been associated with infant gastroschisis. This medication is pregnancy category C.
Medicated nasal sprays. Cromolyn nasal spray (NasalCrom, generics) is helpful in treating allergic rhinitis if it is used before exposure to an allergen and prior to the onset of symptoms. This medication is pregnancy category B and is available over the counter. If this medication is not helpful, one nasal steroid, budesonide (Rhinocort Aqua), recently received a pregnancy category B rating (all others are category C), and therefore would be the nasal steroid of choice during pregnancy.
Immunotherapy. Allergy shots can be continued during pregnancy, but it is not recommended to start this treatment while pregnant. Typically the dose of the allergy shots is not increased, and many allergists will cut the dose of the allergy shot by 50 percent during pregnancy. Some allergists feel that allergy shots should be stopped during pregnancy, given the risk of anaphylaxis and possible danger to the fetus as a result. Other than anaphylaxis, there is no data showing that the allergy shots themselves are actually harmful to the fetus.
Sep
4
Cindy Heller asked:
When medications fail to adequately control allergy symptoms and avoidance of the trigger is not easy or possible, an allergist may recommend immunotherapy or “allergy shots”. This treatment consists of a series of injections containing small amounts of the substances to which a person is allergic. After a course of allergy shots, 80 to 90 percent of patients have less allergy symptoms, and in many cases their allergies have completely resolved. Allergy shots can be given for allergic rhino-conjunctivitis (nose and eyes), allergic asthma and insect sting allergies.
Are allergy shots experimental therapies?
No. Allergy shots have been given for nearly 100 years and are FDA approved therapies. Numerous well-designed medical studies show the efficacy of allergy shots.
And allergy shots do not contain steroids, which can have adverse long-term side effects.
How do allergy shots work?
Unlike allergy medicines, which act only to “cover up” allergic symptoms or prevent them temporarily, allergy shots fix the underlying problem of allergies. This occurs because the body treats the injection much like a vaccine, resulting in the production of infection-fighting antibodies against the pollen, dust, mold or pet dander. The body then stops producing as much allergic antibodies against the triggers, and therefore won’t have as much, or any, allergic response when exposed to the allergens. These changes can last for many years even after stopping allergy shots. Recent studies show that allergy shots can also prevent people from developing new allergies, and reduce the risk of developing asthma in children with nasal allergies.
How are allergy shots given?
The method of immunotherapy consists of starting at a small dose that will not cause an allergic reaction, with slowly advancing the dosage until the person becomes tolerant to large amounts of the extract. These injections are initially given once to twice a week until a maintenance, or constant dose, is achieved. This usually takes approximately 3 to 6 months. Once the maintenance dosage is reached, the allergic symptoms are largely resolved in most patients. Thereafter, the injections are given every two to four weeks.
How long must I take allergy shots?
Therapy is continued for 3 to 5 years total, after which the patient continues to get benefit for another 5 to 10 years or longer, even after the shots are stopped. If the shots are stopped prior to a total of 3 years, the allergic symptoms typically return more quickly.
What are the risks of allergy shots?
The risks of immunotherapy consist of the possibility of experiencing an allergic reaction to the allergy shot. Most allergic reactions consist of mild to moderate swelling and itching at the site of the injection. These reactions occur frequently, but rarely require any change in treatment. A large swelling may require an adjustment of the immunotherapy dosage or a change in the frequency and amount of the shots.
Less commonly patients experience whole-body allergic reactions, sometimes called “anaphylaxis”. Most of these reactions are mild and consist of itching of the skin, hives, or runny nose. Others are more severe and can present as cough, chest tightness, wheezing, throat tightness, shock and rarely can be life-threatening.
For this reason, it is normally required that patients remain in the physician’s office for 20 to 30 minutes after the injection since most reactions occur during this time. These reactions are typically easily reversed with medicines such as injectable epinephrine and anti-histamines.
Should I take allergy shots?
Obviously, this is a question that only you and your doctor can answer. There are many reasons to consider allergy shots:
- Medicines don’t work: Many patients go to the allergist because they still have symptoms despite having tried numerous allergy medications, with little to no relief of their symptoms. Sometimes allergy shots are the only therapy left for these patients.
- Go for the cure: Other patients like the idea of a “cure”, and opt for allergy shots for that reason. Remember, immunotherapy is the only treatment for allergies that fixes the underlying problem of the immune system, much like a vaccine.
- Don’t like medicines: Some patients experience severe side effects from medications, or don’t like taking medications on a daily basis - the idea of a “once a month shot” is a better option for them.
- Cost of medicines: Medications can be expensive, and since allergy symptoms typically return soon after medications are stopped, patients may require medications for many, many years. Allergy shots can alleviate much of the need for medications and can be a significant cost savings measure in the long run.
When medications fail to adequately control allergy symptoms and avoidance of the trigger is not easy or possible, an allergist may recommend immunotherapy or “allergy shots”. This treatment consists of a series of injections containing small amounts of the substances to which a person is allergic. After a course of allergy shots, 80 to 90 percent of patients have less allergy symptoms, and in many cases their allergies have completely resolved. Allergy shots can be given for allergic rhino-conjunctivitis (nose and eyes), allergic asthma and insect sting allergies.
Are allergy shots experimental therapies?
No. Allergy shots have been given for nearly 100 years and are FDA approved therapies. Numerous well-designed medical studies show the efficacy of allergy shots.
And allergy shots do not contain steroids, which can have adverse long-term side effects.
How do allergy shots work?
Unlike allergy medicines, which act only to “cover up” allergic symptoms or prevent them temporarily, allergy shots fix the underlying problem of allergies. This occurs because the body treats the injection much like a vaccine, resulting in the production of infection-fighting antibodies against the pollen, dust, mold or pet dander. The body then stops producing as much allergic antibodies against the triggers, and therefore won’t have as much, or any, allergic response when exposed to the allergens. These changes can last for many years even after stopping allergy shots. Recent studies show that allergy shots can also prevent people from developing new allergies, and reduce the risk of developing asthma in children with nasal allergies.
How are allergy shots given?
The method of immunotherapy consists of starting at a small dose that will not cause an allergic reaction, with slowly advancing the dosage until the person becomes tolerant to large amounts of the extract. These injections are initially given once to twice a week until a maintenance, or constant dose, is achieved. This usually takes approximately 3 to 6 months. Once the maintenance dosage is reached, the allergic symptoms are largely resolved in most patients. Thereafter, the injections are given every two to four weeks.
How long must I take allergy shots?
Therapy is continued for 3 to 5 years total, after which the patient continues to get benefit for another 5 to 10 years or longer, even after the shots are stopped. If the shots are stopped prior to a total of 3 years, the allergic symptoms typically return more quickly.
What are the risks of allergy shots?
The risks of immunotherapy consist of the possibility of experiencing an allergic reaction to the allergy shot. Most allergic reactions consist of mild to moderate swelling and itching at the site of the injection. These reactions occur frequently, but rarely require any change in treatment. A large swelling may require an adjustment of the immunotherapy dosage or a change in the frequency and amount of the shots.
Less commonly patients experience whole-body allergic reactions, sometimes called “anaphylaxis”. Most of these reactions are mild and consist of itching of the skin, hives, or runny nose. Others are more severe and can present as cough, chest tightness, wheezing, throat tightness, shock and rarely can be life-threatening.
For this reason, it is normally required that patients remain in the physician’s office for 20 to 30 minutes after the injection since most reactions occur during this time. These reactions are typically easily reversed with medicines such as injectable epinephrine and anti-histamines.
Should I take allergy shots?
Obviously, this is a question that only you and your doctor can answer. There are many reasons to consider allergy shots:
- Medicines don’t work: Many patients go to the allergist because they still have symptoms despite having tried numerous allergy medications, with little to no relief of their symptoms. Sometimes allergy shots are the only therapy left for these patients.
- Go for the cure: Other patients like the idea of a “cure”, and opt for allergy shots for that reason. Remember, immunotherapy is the only treatment for allergies that fixes the underlying problem of the immune system, much like a vaccine.
- Don’t like medicines: Some patients experience severe side effects from medications, or don’t like taking medications on a daily basis - the idea of a “once a month shot” is a better option for them.
- Cost of medicines: Medications can be expensive, and since allergy symptoms typically return soon after medications are stopped, patients may require medications for many, many years. Allergy shots can alleviate much of the need for medications and can be a significant cost savings measure in the long run.
Jun
26
The Key to Allergy Relief
Filed Under Medications | Leave a Comment
John Hilaire asked:
Allergies are a horrible thing to deal with for the normal person. There are allergies to many substances. A person can be allergic to food, medications, dogs, cats, dust, mold, grass, etc. The key to allergy relief is to prevent contact with these substances. For food allergies a person needs to avoid eating or coming into contact with any of the foods which cause the allergic reaction.
With medication allergies the key to allergy relief is to not use the medications. It is important for the person to notify there physician, pharmacist and other health care workers of the medication allergy so that it can be noted in the medical records. People who are severely allergic to dogs and cats will need to avoid homes which have these pets. If the allergy is less severe avoiding contact with the animal and the furniture the animal uses will provide allergy relief.
People with dust and mold allergies will need to keep their living and work environments clean. Also using an air filter in the home or office may provide allergy relief in this situation. Many of these tips are simple common sense and just need some careful consideration by the allergy sufferer.
Medications for Allergy Relief
For people with severe allergies there are medications on the market which can help provide allergy relief. Antihistamines are one class of medications for allergy treatment. Benadryl has been on the market for many years and has been used for prevention of allergies and treatment of allergic reactions.
Some people have found that the problem with Benadryl is that is causes drowsiness. This is okay at bedtime but difficult to deal with throughout the day. There are other allergy medications available at the local drug store. Loratadine and other medications which previously required a doctor’s prescription are now available without a prescription. These medications advertise allergy relief without drowsiness and can be taken sometimes just once a day.
If a person finds that they have asthma type reactions with their allergies a doctor may prescribe asthma medications. There are some medications available by inhaler such as Albuterol that may provide rapid relief to acute respiratory distress. When a person becomes aware that they have problems with breathing and respirations they should see a doctor as soon as possible to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate medications for any distress that may arise.
Of course, a person should discuss all medications they are taking with their physician and should seek a physician’s advice before beginning any new medication regimen.
Allergies are a horrible thing to deal with for the normal person. There are allergies to many substances. A person can be allergic to food, medications, dogs, cats, dust, mold, grass, etc. The key to allergy relief is to prevent contact with these substances. For food allergies a person needs to avoid eating or coming into contact with any of the foods which cause the allergic reaction.
With medication allergies the key to allergy relief is to not use the medications. It is important for the person to notify there physician, pharmacist and other health care workers of the medication allergy so that it can be noted in the medical records. People who are severely allergic to dogs and cats will need to avoid homes which have these pets. If the allergy is less severe avoiding contact with the animal and the furniture the animal uses will provide allergy relief.
People with dust and mold allergies will need to keep their living and work environments clean. Also using an air filter in the home or office may provide allergy relief in this situation. Many of these tips are simple common sense and just need some careful consideration by the allergy sufferer.
Medications for Allergy Relief
For people with severe allergies there are medications on the market which can help provide allergy relief. Antihistamines are one class of medications for allergy treatment. Benadryl has been on the market for many years and has been used for prevention of allergies and treatment of allergic reactions.
Some people have found that the problem with Benadryl is that is causes drowsiness. This is okay at bedtime but difficult to deal with throughout the day. There are other allergy medications available at the local drug store. Loratadine and other medications which previously required a doctor’s prescription are now available without a prescription. These medications advertise allergy relief without drowsiness and can be taken sometimes just once a day.
If a person finds that they have asthma type reactions with their allergies a doctor may prescribe asthma medications. There are some medications available by inhaler such as Albuterol that may provide rapid relief to acute respiratory distress. When a person becomes aware that they have problems with breathing and respirations they should see a doctor as soon as possible to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate medications for any distress that may arise.
Of course, a person should discuss all medications they are taking with their physician and should seek a physician’s advice before beginning any new medication regimen.
Apr
22
Eric Morgan asked:
Here are some basic answers to questions you may have regarding allergen immunotherapy, also known as “allergy shots.”
Allergen immunotherapy is a treatment designed to decrease nasal allergies (also known as allergic rhinitis), allergic asthma and reactions caused by insect stings. Specific allergens are identified through allergy testing, so the allergist first knows what is causing the allergy symptoms, in order to effectively treat them. After the culprit has been identified, allergen immunotherapy involves getting injections of increasing amounts of specific allergens over the course of several months.
Does Immunology Work?
Aside from decreasing allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose and congestion, Immunotherapy can help prevent the development of new allergies. In children, Immunotherapy can help prevent allergic rhinitis from progressing into asthma. Even after the treatments have stopped, allergen immunotherapy often leads to long-lasting relief of allergy symptoms.
Many studies have shown that immunotherapy is effective for the treatment of nasal allergies, for both adults and children. A review of 18 published studies involving nearly 800 patients concluded that immunotherapy is highly effective in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. An extensive review of immunotherapy as a treatment for allergic rhinitis in children, showed that the only treatment able to affect the natural cause of the disease is immunotherapy. Studies showing the effectiveness of immunotherapy suggest that roughly 8 out of 10 allergy patients benefit significantly from immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy may also prevent the onset of asthma, and a review of multiple studies showed that allergen immunotherapy is also an effective treatment for asthma. These studies have indicated that treatment with immunotherapy results in reduced symptoms of asthma and improved pulmonary functions, and at the same time, reduces the need for asthma medications.
For individuals with a previously demonstrated allergic susceptibility to insect stings, immunization with insect venom is an extremely effective treatment for preventing future allergic reactions. A review of nine published studies indicates that a course of immunotherapy is highly effective in the management of insect sting allergy. Immunology can be a great alternative if you have any of the following concerns:
Poor response to medications
Impractical or impossible to avoid the offending allergens
Negative medication side effects
Wanting to avoid long-term medications or reduce the cost of medications
Coexisting allergic rhinitis and asthma
Possible prevention of asthma in children
Individuals with allergic asthma
If Immunotherapy Works Why Doesn’t Everyone Do It?
People who have very light symptoms or have found an effective medication that eliminates symptoms, may not need immunotherapy. For others, the time and commitment involved in starting and undergoing immunotherapy can be seen as an obstacle, especially when looking for a “quick fix”. In time however, more and more patients are realizing that the long-term benefits of immunotherapy are much better than having to be on medications for the rest of their life.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Receiving Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is recommended for those with allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis (involving various nasal symptoms) and conjunctivitis, or stinging insect allergy. It may be the best option for those who have difficulty controlling symptoms through avoidance or medication. Other considerations are that you do not like the side effects of allergy medication, the allergy medications are inconvenient, or having to take multiple medications in order to control symptoms. Immunotherapy is not recommended for those with food allergies. The best treatment for severe food allergies is to strictly avoid the offending food. The decision to begin immunotherapy will be based on several factors including:
Length of allergy season and how severe symptoms are.
How well medications and/or environmental controls take care of the allergy symptoms.
Wanting to avoid long-term reliance on medication.
Immunotherapy will require a significant time commitment-are you willing to make the commitment to the therapy?
Cost: may vary depending on insurance coverage.
Will Insurance Pay For Immunology?
Most insurance companies and HMOs will pay for immunotherapy, especially if your primary care doctor refers you to an allergist and the allergist recommends immunotherapy as part of your treatment. Even patients with milder symptoms may be recommended immunotherapy to avoid worsening of symptoms, particularly if they cannot always avoid the things they are allergic to, such as a family pet, bee stings, or specific native plants.
Who Is a Good Candidate for receiving immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is recommended for those with allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis (involving various nasal symptoms) and conjunctivitis, or stinging insect allergy. It may be the best option for those who have difficulty controlling symptoms through avoidance or medication. Other considerations are that you do not like the side effects of allergy medication, the allergy medications are inconvenient, or having to take multiple medications in order to control symptoms. Immunotherapy is not recommended for those with food allergies. The best treatment for severe food allergies is to strictly avoid the offending food. The decision to begin immunotherapy will be based on several factors including:
Length of allergy season and how severe symptoms are.
How well medications and/or environmental controls take care of the allergy symptoms.
Wanting to avoid long-term reliance on medication.
Immunotherapy will require a significant time commitment-are you willing to make the commitment to the therapy?
Cost: may vary depending on insurance coverage.
How Is the Treatment Administered?
A very small hypodermic syringe is used to inject commercial allergen extracts. The injections are usually at the site of the loose tissue over the back of the upper arm, between the shoulder and elbow. This area is the least painful site for injection as there are very few nerve endings. Injections are given under the skin (”subcutaneous”). When administered correctly, the injections should only be slightly uncomfortable. They are not usually painful, and are well tolerated by adults, teenagers and most children. You may be advised to take an antihistamine a few hours before each injection to reduce the likelihood of any local allergic reaction and other side effects.
Can Young Children Receive Immunotherapy?
Children over the age of 5 may be good candidates for the therapy. Very young child will likely have difficulty cooperating with the immunotherapy regimen. However, immunotherapy can be a good option for children in general. Studies suggest that immunotherapy treatments may prevent the development of new allergies in children, and may help prevent the development of asthma in children who have rhinitis.
Is There an Age Limit to Receiving Immunotherapy?
Not really. Anyone from age 5 on up may benefit from receiving immunotherapy. With elderly persons, consideration should be given to the overall health and chronic medical conditions (such as cardiac disease), which could potentially cause problems. However most healthy children and adults can benefit from Immunotherapy treatments.
Where Does the Immunotherapy Take Place?
Ideally, immunotherapy should always be given in the prescribing allergist/immunologist’s office/clinic. If this is not possible for some extenuating circumstance, your allergist/immunologist should provide the supervising physician with all needed information about your specific treatment. Either way, you must always be in the care of an appropriate medical professional, who is qualified to administer Immunotherapy.
Here are some basic answers to questions you may have regarding allergen immunotherapy, also known as “allergy shots.”
Allergen immunotherapy is a treatment designed to decrease nasal allergies (also known as allergic rhinitis), allergic asthma and reactions caused by insect stings. Specific allergens are identified through allergy testing, so the allergist first knows what is causing the allergy symptoms, in order to effectively treat them. After the culprit has been identified, allergen immunotherapy involves getting injections of increasing amounts of specific allergens over the course of several months.
Does Immunology Work?
Aside from decreasing allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose and congestion, Immunotherapy can help prevent the development of new allergies. In children, Immunotherapy can help prevent allergic rhinitis from progressing into asthma. Even after the treatments have stopped, allergen immunotherapy often leads to long-lasting relief of allergy symptoms.
Many studies have shown that immunotherapy is effective for the treatment of nasal allergies, for both adults and children. A review of 18 published studies involving nearly 800 patients concluded that immunotherapy is highly effective in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. An extensive review of immunotherapy as a treatment for allergic rhinitis in children, showed that the only treatment able to affect the natural cause of the disease is immunotherapy. Studies showing the effectiveness of immunotherapy suggest that roughly 8 out of 10 allergy patients benefit significantly from immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy may also prevent the onset of asthma, and a review of multiple studies showed that allergen immunotherapy is also an effective treatment for asthma. These studies have indicated that treatment with immunotherapy results in reduced symptoms of asthma and improved pulmonary functions, and at the same time, reduces the need for asthma medications.
For individuals with a previously demonstrated allergic susceptibility to insect stings, immunization with insect venom is an extremely effective treatment for preventing future allergic reactions. A review of nine published studies indicates that a course of immunotherapy is highly effective in the management of insect sting allergy. Immunology can be a great alternative if you have any of the following concerns:
Poor response to medications
Impractical or impossible to avoid the offending allergens
Negative medication side effects
Wanting to avoid long-term medications or reduce the cost of medications
Coexisting allergic rhinitis and asthma
Possible prevention of asthma in children
Individuals with allergic asthma
If Immunotherapy Works Why Doesn’t Everyone Do It?
People who have very light symptoms or have found an effective medication that eliminates symptoms, may not need immunotherapy. For others, the time and commitment involved in starting and undergoing immunotherapy can be seen as an obstacle, especially when looking for a “quick fix”. In time however, more and more patients are realizing that the long-term benefits of immunotherapy are much better than having to be on medications for the rest of their life.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Receiving Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is recommended for those with allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis (involving various nasal symptoms) and conjunctivitis, or stinging insect allergy. It may be the best option for those who have difficulty controlling symptoms through avoidance or medication. Other considerations are that you do not like the side effects of allergy medication, the allergy medications are inconvenient, or having to take multiple medications in order to control symptoms. Immunotherapy is not recommended for those with food allergies. The best treatment for severe food allergies is to strictly avoid the offending food. The decision to begin immunotherapy will be based on several factors including:
Length of allergy season and how severe symptoms are.
How well medications and/or environmental controls take care of the allergy symptoms.
Wanting to avoid long-term reliance on medication.
Immunotherapy will require a significant time commitment-are you willing to make the commitment to the therapy?
Cost: may vary depending on insurance coverage.
Will Insurance Pay For Immunology?
Most insurance companies and HMOs will pay for immunotherapy, especially if your primary care doctor refers you to an allergist and the allergist recommends immunotherapy as part of your treatment. Even patients with milder symptoms may be recommended immunotherapy to avoid worsening of symptoms, particularly if they cannot always avoid the things they are allergic to, such as a family pet, bee stings, or specific native plants.
Who Is a Good Candidate for receiving immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is recommended for those with allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis (involving various nasal symptoms) and conjunctivitis, or stinging insect allergy. It may be the best option for those who have difficulty controlling symptoms through avoidance or medication. Other considerations are that you do not like the side effects of allergy medication, the allergy medications are inconvenient, or having to take multiple medications in order to control symptoms. Immunotherapy is not recommended for those with food allergies. The best treatment for severe food allergies is to strictly avoid the offending food. The decision to begin immunotherapy will be based on several factors including:
Length of allergy season and how severe symptoms are.
How well medications and/or environmental controls take care of the allergy symptoms.
Wanting to avoid long-term reliance on medication.
Immunotherapy will require a significant time commitment-are you willing to make the commitment to the therapy?
Cost: may vary depending on insurance coverage.
How Is the Treatment Administered?
A very small hypodermic syringe is used to inject commercial allergen extracts. The injections are usually at the site of the loose tissue over the back of the upper arm, between the shoulder and elbow. This area is the least painful site for injection as there are very few nerve endings. Injections are given under the skin (”subcutaneous”). When administered correctly, the injections should only be slightly uncomfortable. They are not usually painful, and are well tolerated by adults, teenagers and most children. You may be advised to take an antihistamine a few hours before each injection to reduce the likelihood of any local allergic reaction and other side effects.
Can Young Children Receive Immunotherapy?
Children over the age of 5 may be good candidates for the therapy. Very young child will likely have difficulty cooperating with the immunotherapy regimen. However, immunotherapy can be a good option for children in general. Studies suggest that immunotherapy treatments may prevent the development of new allergies in children, and may help prevent the development of asthma in children who have rhinitis.
Is There an Age Limit to Receiving Immunotherapy?
Not really. Anyone from age 5 on up may benefit from receiving immunotherapy. With elderly persons, consideration should be given to the overall health and chronic medical conditions (such as cardiac disease), which could potentially cause problems. However most healthy children and adults can benefit from Immunotherapy treatments.
Where Does the Immunotherapy Take Place?
Ideally, immunotherapy should always be given in the prescribing allergist/immunologist’s office/clinic. If this is not possible for some extenuating circumstance, your allergist/immunologist should provide the supervising physician with all needed information about your specific treatment. Either way, you must always be in the care of an appropriate medical professional, who is qualified to administer Immunotherapy.
Mar
29
Riley Hendersen asked:
Suffering from allergies, no matter whether they’re caused by animals, foods or dusts, isn’t pleasant, and for some can cause serious side effects. It’s important for people to know what their options are when it comes to allergy treatment. In some cases, your doctor will prescribe certain medications for you, but often, people try to find just the right treatment that will help them deal with the stuffy noses, watery eyes and the sneezing and itching that accompanies most allergies by themselves.
An allergy treatment can be something as simple as avoiding the substance, or allergens, that you’re allergic to. However, since many people are unable to control their environment to such a degree, choosing the right allergy treatment for your needs takes some homework. The most common types of allergy treatment come in the forms of decongestants, antihistamines, corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers and mast cell stabilizers. Some of these are available over the counter, while others are by prescription only.
An antihistamine is the most common allergy treatment medication. This type of allergy treatment involves many over-the-counter antihistamine products found on most pharmacy shelves. An antihistamine blocks the release of inflammatory histamines into your immune system, which usually results in the common signs and symptoms of an allergy reaction, such as runny, watery eyes, itching and sneezing and sometimes rashes or hives. Commonly used antihistamines are available in pill or liquid forms such as Benadryl and Claritin, but also come in nasal sprays and even eye drops.
A decongestant helps to relieve sinus and nasal congestion caused by hay fever, and is usually available as over the counter medications such as Sudafed and Neo-Synephrine. A corticosteroid allergy treatment helps to prevent and also treat the inflammation experienced by most allergy sufferers. Common forms of this type of allergy medication, Flonase and Nasacort, are available by prescription. A leukotriene modifier is a medication that serves to block leukotriene, which is an inflammatory chemical released by your immune system during an allergy attack.
These allergy treatment remedies are available through prescription only. Some mast cell stabilizers, which also serve to prevent the release of histamine into the body via immune system responses to the particular allergen someone is allergic to are available in over the counter medications such as NasalCrom, but the eye drop forms of these types of medications are available through prescription only.
No matter what type of allergy you suffer from, relief is available, but to determine the right allergy treatment for your symptoms and allergen sensitivity, it’s best to see your doctor for the correct allergy treatment. Suffering from allergies doesn’t have to mean a drastic change in lifestyle, but some occasions, or seasons, may require you to adapt to the conditions around you.
An allergy treatment is only as effective as the medication you take to control it, which is why it’s so important for your doctor to decide which medication is right for you. Allergy treatment can range from cheap to expensive options when it comes to medications, but the good news is, relief is out there.
Suffering from allergies, no matter whether they’re caused by animals, foods or dusts, isn’t pleasant, and for some can cause serious side effects. It’s important for people to know what their options are when it comes to allergy treatment. In some cases, your doctor will prescribe certain medications for you, but often, people try to find just the right treatment that will help them deal with the stuffy noses, watery eyes and the sneezing and itching that accompanies most allergies by themselves.
An allergy treatment can be something as simple as avoiding the substance, or allergens, that you’re allergic to. However, since many people are unable to control their environment to such a degree, choosing the right allergy treatment for your needs takes some homework. The most common types of allergy treatment come in the forms of decongestants, antihistamines, corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers and mast cell stabilizers. Some of these are available over the counter, while others are by prescription only.
An antihistamine is the most common allergy treatment medication. This type of allergy treatment involves many over-the-counter antihistamine products found on most pharmacy shelves. An antihistamine blocks the release of inflammatory histamines into your immune system, which usually results in the common signs and symptoms of an allergy reaction, such as runny, watery eyes, itching and sneezing and sometimes rashes or hives. Commonly used antihistamines are available in pill or liquid forms such as Benadryl and Claritin, but also come in nasal sprays and even eye drops.
A decongestant helps to relieve sinus and nasal congestion caused by hay fever, and is usually available as over the counter medications such as Sudafed and Neo-Synephrine. A corticosteroid allergy treatment helps to prevent and also treat the inflammation experienced by most allergy sufferers. Common forms of this type of allergy medication, Flonase and Nasacort, are available by prescription. A leukotriene modifier is a medication that serves to block leukotriene, which is an inflammatory chemical released by your immune system during an allergy attack.
These allergy treatment remedies are available through prescription only. Some mast cell stabilizers, which also serve to prevent the release of histamine into the body via immune system responses to the particular allergen someone is allergic to are available in over the counter medications such as NasalCrom, but the eye drop forms of these types of medications are available through prescription only.
No matter what type of allergy you suffer from, relief is available, but to determine the right allergy treatment for your symptoms and allergen sensitivity, it’s best to see your doctor for the correct allergy treatment. Suffering from allergies doesn’t have to mean a drastic change in lifestyle, but some occasions, or seasons, may require you to adapt to the conditions around you.
An allergy treatment is only as effective as the medication you take to control it, which is why it’s so important for your doctor to decide which medication is right for you. Allergy treatment can range from cheap to expensive options when it comes to medications, but the good news is, relief is out there.
Mar
5
Brooke Hayles asked:
With each season, come new flowery blooms and blossoms. While most people enjoy these seasonal changes, this can be detrimental for allergy sufferers. The summer heat can increase the growth of certain allergy triggers, which will increase allergic reactions. Knowing what steps to take to get allergy relief, will help you enjoy each season and what come with them.
With these simple tips on what to do for allergies, you can get through each season with some much needed allergy relief.
Limit your outdoor exposure during the peak allergen hours, such as morning hours to mid-afternoon. These times can be hard on people with allergies and cause wheezing, sneezing and itchy eyes, more so than other times of the day. When gardening or cleaning the house, be sure to put on a mask that will help filter out the dust particles and pollen. Keeping the windows closed will help reduce the amount of allergens in the house. Be sure to keep the A/C running inside when you can. The air conditioner offers a bit of allergy relief as well as it filters the air in the house, reducing pollutants. If you are a person who spends a lot of time outdoors then a nightly bath will provide allergy relief as it will help to wash pollen and pollutant off of the body and out of the hair. This will help you get a good nights rest. You can help the onset of an allergy attack by taking the proper allergy relief medications prior to going outdoors. It is far better to ward off the allergic reactions rather than trying to settle them down.
You will want to keep your allergy medication handy at all times, or if you have no prescription you will want to keep some form of over the counter antihistamines on hand at all times to get immediate allergy relief.
These types of medications can help with the initial sneezing, watery eyes and itching. You might want to try a decongestant for a stuffy nose. You will want to stay away from such items as the over the counter nasal sprays for instant relief as they can be addicting.
Corticosteroid nose sprays can be very helpful in the long run as they help control symptoms and you only have to use them once a day. Keep in mind that, steroids for allergies are not the same as the steroids used by many sports minded people.
No matter what precautions one takes to avoid an allergic reaction, you still can have an attack from time to time, after all no one is safe from everything. The over the counter medications only offer short term allergy relief and it may be necessary at times to seek the help of a professional allergist.
Going to see an allergist can help you in many ways as they offer a variety of treatments for allergy suffers that are not available as over the counter treatments. Allergists can help you get long lasting allergy relief and they can also help you build your immune system to lower your reactions.
Allergists offer allergy injections that have proved to be the best medical treatment available. There is a new approach to the injections called rush immunotherapy, this has been proven to show amazing results. In this type of injection treatment, the shots are given over a shorter period of time, making this type of treatment good for people who have life threatening allergies.
These types of allergies may include severe allergic asthma or severe allergies to insects such as bee stings. Rush immunotherapy is also good for people who will be traveling, but as with any injection therapy this must be done in a doctor’s office or a clinic.
By following some preventive measures and remedial measures, you will get the allergy relief needed to be active and enjoy the seasons as you were meant to.
Summary:
Summer brings with it many sort of allergies. With each season, come new flowery blooms and blossoms. While most people enjoy these seasonal changes, this can be detrimental for allergy sufferers. Knowing what steps to take for your allergic reactions, will help you enjoy each season and what come with them.
With each season, come new flowery blooms and blossoms. While most people enjoy these seasonal changes, this can be detrimental for allergy sufferers. The summer heat can increase the growth of certain allergy triggers, which will increase allergic reactions. Knowing what steps to take to get allergy relief, will help you enjoy each season and what come with them.
With these simple tips on what to do for allergies, you can get through each season with some much needed allergy relief.
Limit your outdoor exposure during the peak allergen hours, such as morning hours to mid-afternoon. These times can be hard on people with allergies and cause wheezing, sneezing and itchy eyes, more so than other times of the day. When gardening or cleaning the house, be sure to put on a mask that will help filter out the dust particles and pollen. Keeping the windows closed will help reduce the amount of allergens in the house. Be sure to keep the A/C running inside when you can. The air conditioner offers a bit of allergy relief as well as it filters the air in the house, reducing pollutants. If you are a person who spends a lot of time outdoors then a nightly bath will provide allergy relief as it will help to wash pollen and pollutant off of the body and out of the hair. This will help you get a good nights rest. You can help the onset of an allergy attack by taking the proper allergy relief medications prior to going outdoors. It is far better to ward off the allergic reactions rather than trying to settle them down.
You will want to keep your allergy medication handy at all times, or if you have no prescription you will want to keep some form of over the counter antihistamines on hand at all times to get immediate allergy relief.
These types of medications can help with the initial sneezing, watery eyes and itching. You might want to try a decongestant for a stuffy nose. You will want to stay away from such items as the over the counter nasal sprays for instant relief as they can be addicting.
Corticosteroid nose sprays can be very helpful in the long run as they help control symptoms and you only have to use them once a day. Keep in mind that, steroids for allergies are not the same as the steroids used by many sports minded people.
No matter what precautions one takes to avoid an allergic reaction, you still can have an attack from time to time, after all no one is safe from everything. The over the counter medications only offer short term allergy relief and it may be necessary at times to seek the help of a professional allergist.
Going to see an allergist can help you in many ways as they offer a variety of treatments for allergy suffers that are not available as over the counter treatments. Allergists can help you get long lasting allergy relief and they can also help you build your immune system to lower your reactions.
Allergists offer allergy injections that have proved to be the best medical treatment available. There is a new approach to the injections called rush immunotherapy, this has been proven to show amazing results. In this type of injection treatment, the shots are given over a shorter period of time, making this type of treatment good for people who have life threatening allergies.
These types of allergies may include severe allergic asthma or severe allergies to insects such as bee stings. Rush immunotherapy is also good for people who will be traveling, but as with any injection therapy this must be done in a doctor’s office or a clinic.
By following some preventive measures and remedial measures, you will get the allergy relief needed to be active and enjoy the seasons as you were meant to.
Summary:
Summer brings with it many sort of allergies. With each season, come new flowery blooms and blossoms. While most people enjoy these seasonal changes, this can be detrimental for allergy sufferers. Knowing what steps to take for your allergic reactions, will help you enjoy each season and what come with them.
Jan
23
Finding a Successful Allergy Treatment
Filed Under Medications | Leave a Comment
Riley Hendersen asked:
Millions of people suffer from allergies each year. When certain materials come into contact with a person suffering from a specific allergy, their immune system mistakenly believes the material to be harmful. In response, the body will then produce histamine and other chemicals as a form of protection. Due to the presence of these chemicals within the body, reactions will take place such as a rash, swelling, and itching. In some cases, people may be affected by objects within the environment such as pollen, pollutants, mold, and dust. Reactions to environmental substances may include eye or skin irritations or breathing difficulty. In all cases, finding a successful allergy treatment is dependent on the type of allergy.
The most important step in successful allergy treatment is to avoid the materials that are causing the allergy symptoms. In order to prevent an allergy reaction, testing must be completed to find out which specific substance is causing distress within the individual. Allergy treatment must begin with testing the skin to find out what substances react with the skin when they make contact on the body. An allergist, a doctor that specializes in allergy treatment, will use a scratch test or a patch test to introduce various materials onto the skin to see if the skin has a reaction. If the site of the skin test reacts with redness or swelling, it is determined that the individual is allergic to the corresponding allergen.
The doctor will then recommend the right course of action for an allergy treatment based on the results of the skin tests. The doctor will also obtain a detailed medical history and a detailed description of the types of allergy episodes the individual has encountered. Several options are available in allergy treatment. Avoidance of the substances causing an episode can prevent distress. Pets, mold, pollen, dust mites, or certain foods, depending on your allergy, should be eliminated from your daily life and exposure should be kept to a minimum. Allergy medications may also be recommended by your doctor and include antihistamine, decongestants, mast cell stabilizers, or leukotriene modifiers. These medications can help reduce inflammation, block histamines, or eliminate nasal and sinus congestion.
Allergy medications can be utilized on a short term basis, or if the allergy is more severe, a long term medication may be recommended. Short term medications do not require a prescription but can cause drowsiness. A long term allergy treatment may require a prescription medication that does not cause the same side effects as a short term over-the -counter medication.
Allergy treatment depends on the specific allergy symptoms and the recommendations of the doctor. Certain over-the-counter medications could be used such as nasal sprays, creams, eye drops, pill or liquid decongestants, and antihistamines. Prescription strength allergy treatment may be suggested by doctors if the allergy is severe and needs a quick resolution due to shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing.
Each individual will require their own specific allergy treatment. There are many options to help relieve the discomfort allergy sufferers experience during allergy attacks. Working together with the doctor and routinely monitoring your current health status can lead to successful management of outbreaks and long term allergy treatment.
Millions of people suffer from allergies each year. When certain materials come into contact with a person suffering from a specific allergy, their immune system mistakenly believes the material to be harmful. In response, the body will then produce histamine and other chemicals as a form of protection. Due to the presence of these chemicals within the body, reactions will take place such as a rash, swelling, and itching. In some cases, people may be affected by objects within the environment such as pollen, pollutants, mold, and dust. Reactions to environmental substances may include eye or skin irritations or breathing difficulty. In all cases, finding a successful allergy treatment is dependent on the type of allergy.
The most important step in successful allergy treatment is to avoid the materials that are causing the allergy symptoms. In order to prevent an allergy reaction, testing must be completed to find out which specific substance is causing distress within the individual. Allergy treatment must begin with testing the skin to find out what substances react with the skin when they make contact on the body. An allergist, a doctor that specializes in allergy treatment, will use a scratch test or a patch test to introduce various materials onto the skin to see if the skin has a reaction. If the site of the skin test reacts with redness or swelling, it is determined that the individual is allergic to the corresponding allergen.
The doctor will then recommend the right course of action for an allergy treatment based on the results of the skin tests. The doctor will also obtain a detailed medical history and a detailed description of the types of allergy episodes the individual has encountered. Several options are available in allergy treatment. Avoidance of the substances causing an episode can prevent distress. Pets, mold, pollen, dust mites, or certain foods, depending on your allergy, should be eliminated from your daily life and exposure should be kept to a minimum. Allergy medications may also be recommended by your doctor and include antihistamine, decongestants, mast cell stabilizers, or leukotriene modifiers. These medications can help reduce inflammation, block histamines, or eliminate nasal and sinus congestion.
Allergy medications can be utilized on a short term basis, or if the allergy is more severe, a long term medication may be recommended. Short term medications do not require a prescription but can cause drowsiness. A long term allergy treatment may require a prescription medication that does not cause the same side effects as a short term over-the -counter medication.
Allergy treatment depends on the specific allergy symptoms and the recommendations of the doctor. Certain over-the-counter medications could be used such as nasal sprays, creams, eye drops, pill or liquid decongestants, and antihistamines. Prescription strength allergy treatment may be suggested by doctors if the allergy is severe and needs a quick resolution due to shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing.
Each individual will require their own specific allergy treatment. There are many options to help relieve the discomfort allergy sufferers experience during allergy attacks. Working together with the doctor and routinely monitoring your current health status can lead to successful management of outbreaks and long term allergy treatment.
Jan
14
Samantha Kay asked:
There are currently a variety of allergy treatment medications available to help alleviate the misery allergies can bring. The coughing, sneezing, runny eyes and itchy nose associated with allergies can make life hard to deal with.
Allergy relief can come in the form of allergy shots, prescription medications or over-the-counter treatments. Your doctor can suggest the treatment that will be best for your individual condition.
One form of allergy relief comes in the form of a series of allergy shots. In order to receive allergy shots, your doctor will take tests to determine which allergens you are allergic to. An allergen is basically a substance, such as pollen, ragweed or cat dander, that produces an allergic reaction. The shots you will be given will contain a small amount of this allergen.
The idea is that if the body is exposed to a small bit of this allergen over an extended period of time, the body will begin to produce an antibody for the allergen. After a period of six months, you should start to see some relief from your allergies.
Before you start allergy shots, however, talk to your doctor about your entire medical history. Certain health conditions you have or medicines you take may prevent you from being a candidate for allergy shots.
Allergy relief is also available in the form of both over-the-counter and prescription allergy medications. Most allergy medicines will contain one of two different classes of ingredients. One of these ingredients is a class of drugs called antihistamines.
Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, help to stop the chemical reaction in your body that result in an allergic reaction. Decongestants, such as pseudoephidrine, on the other hand, will help to relieve nasal and sinus congestion caused by allergies. Allergy medicines may also contain ingredients to help thin mucus, lower fever or ease aches and pains if you experience these symptoms also.
If you choose to see your doctor for you allergies, he might order a prescription allergy medicine for you. Prescription allergy medications are available in tablets, capsules, liquids and even eye drops. Non-sedating antihistamines are available only by prescription.
Generally prescription allergy medications are longer acting than those you can get without a prescription. These treatments also don’t impair learning abilities. This is especially important for children who suffer with allergies.
There are also a variety of allergy treatments available over-the-counter if you want to treat your allergies on your own. You can purchase these medicines without a doctor’s prescription; however, you might want to consult with your pharmacist about your particular symptoms to be sure you are choosing the best one for you.
Many forms of allergy relief that once required a doctor’s order, such as Claritin and Nasalcrom, are now available without a prescription. While these two medicines generally don’t cause drowsiness, most other over-the-counter antihistamines, such as Benadryl, will possibly make you sleepy. If you do decide to take these medicines, pay attention to the effect they have on you. You might not want to drive if you notice yourself becoming very sleepy.
Whatever extent your allergies bring misery there is allergy relief available. See your doctor to find out if your case could be helped with allergy shots or if your best bet is prescription or even over-the-counter treatments.
There are currently a variety of allergy treatment medications available to help alleviate the misery allergies can bring. The coughing, sneezing, runny eyes and itchy nose associated with allergies can make life hard to deal with.
Allergy relief can come in the form of allergy shots, prescription medications or over-the-counter treatments. Your doctor can suggest the treatment that will be best for your individual condition.
One form of allergy relief comes in the form of a series of allergy shots. In order to receive allergy shots, your doctor will take tests to determine which allergens you are allergic to. An allergen is basically a substance, such as pollen, ragweed or cat dander, that produces an allergic reaction. The shots you will be given will contain a small amount of this allergen.
The idea is that if the body is exposed to a small bit of this allergen over an extended period of time, the body will begin to produce an antibody for the allergen. After a period of six months, you should start to see some relief from your allergies.
Before you start allergy shots, however, talk to your doctor about your entire medical history. Certain health conditions you have or medicines you take may prevent you from being a candidate for allergy shots.
Allergy relief is also available in the form of both over-the-counter and prescription allergy medications. Most allergy medicines will contain one of two different classes of ingredients. One of these ingredients is a class of drugs called antihistamines.
Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, help to stop the chemical reaction in your body that result in an allergic reaction. Decongestants, such as pseudoephidrine, on the other hand, will help to relieve nasal and sinus congestion caused by allergies. Allergy medicines may also contain ingredients to help thin mucus, lower fever or ease aches and pains if you experience these symptoms also.
If you choose to see your doctor for you allergies, he might order a prescription allergy medicine for you. Prescription allergy medications are available in tablets, capsules, liquids and even eye drops. Non-sedating antihistamines are available only by prescription.
Generally prescription allergy medications are longer acting than those you can get without a prescription. These treatments also don’t impair learning abilities. This is especially important for children who suffer with allergies.
There are also a variety of allergy treatments available over-the-counter if you want to treat your allergies on your own. You can purchase these medicines without a doctor’s prescription; however, you might want to consult with your pharmacist about your particular symptoms to be sure you are choosing the best one for you.
Many forms of allergy relief that once required a doctor’s order, such as Claritin and Nasalcrom, are now available without a prescription. While these two medicines generally don’t cause drowsiness, most other over-the-counter antihistamines, such as Benadryl, will possibly make you sleepy. If you do decide to take these medicines, pay attention to the effect they have on you. You might not want to drive if you notice yourself becoming very sleepy.
Whatever extent your allergies bring misery there is allergy relief available. See your doctor to find out if your case could be helped with allergy shots or if your best bet is prescription or even over-the-counter treatments.
Jan
14
Get The Facts On Allergy Medication
Filed Under Medications | Leave a Comment
Steve Johnson asked:
Allergy medications are everywhere - oral antihistamines, nasal antihistamines, decongestants - Maybe it’s time to get the facts on your allergy medication.
Allergy medication is available over the counter and it is prescribed widely by doctors all around the world. Pick up a magazine there’s ads, the television is full of ads - these products are heavily marketed and choosing the one that’s going to work is an entirely different game.
There are four allergy medication categories - nasal sprays, decongestants, nasal antihistamines, and oral antihistamines. Let’s have a look at all four categories.
Oral antihistamines are by far the most common allergy medication prescribed by doctors. The block the histamines which is the chemical that is responsible for most of your symptoms. They do not offer permanent relief but as an allergy medication they do provide relief for itching, sneezing, hives, and nasal drip. Antihistamines can cause drowsiness and make it difficult to concentrate. You can actually be given a DUI if you are driving and taking this medication. Some of the OTC antihistamines are Benadryl, Atarax, Dimetapp, Tavist, Chlor-Trimeton, and Claritin. In fact Benadryl should be in every medicine cabinet.
Nasal antihistamines are newer and available through prescription and are a good allergy medication for the right situations. They work for12 hours and are steroid free. It is believed because of inhalation the dosage absorbed is better. It cause drowsiness, headache, and post nasal drip.
Oral and nasal decongestants are another allergy medication choice that is commonly used for those that have runny noses, sinus issues, post nasal drip, fever, pollen, sneezing, and itching. They are available in both prescription and OTC and in pills, drops, sprays, and liquids. However the ingredient phenylpropanolamine which was found in older decongestants has been banned. Current decongestants include Sudafed, Triaminic, Entex, and Ornade. Decongestants can make you jittery, elevate your blood pressure, and make sleeping difficult. Sudafed should be in every medicine cabinet.
The last allergy medication we’ll look at is nasal sprays. The non-steroid formulas are considered very safe and work best if you started a few weeks before the allergy season. Steroid formulas are available through prescription and are more effective and include Flonase, Nasonex, and Beclovent. Side effects include cataracts, hypertension, headache, weight gain, and nasal ulcers.
But wait we’ve had a look at a variety of allergy medications but there are also several natural remedies and an allergy medication that contains no harsh chemicals is likely to make your body much happier.
Besides considering a natural allergy medication you might also consider giving your body’s immune system a boost with the right supplement. After all the cause of allergies is an immune system that is misfiring.
And that means that an allergy medication isn’t always the solution to the problem. Sure it will reduce the symptoms but it is doing nothing to actually get to the bottom of the problem.
Once you get the facts on allergy medication you are in a much better position to make educated choices that work for you, your type of allergy, and your person situation. Choose what’s right for you.
Allergy medications are everywhere - oral antihistamines, nasal antihistamines, decongestants - Maybe it’s time to get the facts on your allergy medication.
Allergy medication is available over the counter and it is prescribed widely by doctors all around the world. Pick up a magazine there’s ads, the television is full of ads - these products are heavily marketed and choosing the one that’s going to work is an entirely different game.
There are four allergy medication categories - nasal sprays, decongestants, nasal antihistamines, and oral antihistamines. Let’s have a look at all four categories.
Oral antihistamines are by far the most common allergy medication prescribed by doctors. The block the histamines which is the chemical that is responsible for most of your symptoms. They do not offer permanent relief but as an allergy medication they do provide relief for itching, sneezing, hives, and nasal drip. Antihistamines can cause drowsiness and make it difficult to concentrate. You can actually be given a DUI if you are driving and taking this medication. Some of the OTC antihistamines are Benadryl, Atarax, Dimetapp, Tavist, Chlor-Trimeton, and Claritin. In fact Benadryl should be in every medicine cabinet.
Nasal antihistamines are newer and available through prescription and are a good allergy medication for the right situations. They work for12 hours and are steroid free. It is believed because of inhalation the dosage absorbed is better. It cause drowsiness, headache, and post nasal drip.
Oral and nasal decongestants are another allergy medication choice that is commonly used for those that have runny noses, sinus issues, post nasal drip, fever, pollen, sneezing, and itching. They are available in both prescription and OTC and in pills, drops, sprays, and liquids. However the ingredient phenylpropanolamine which was found in older decongestants has been banned. Current decongestants include Sudafed, Triaminic, Entex, and Ornade. Decongestants can make you jittery, elevate your blood pressure, and make sleeping difficult. Sudafed should be in every medicine cabinet.
The last allergy medication we’ll look at is nasal sprays. The non-steroid formulas are considered very safe and work best if you started a few weeks before the allergy season. Steroid formulas are available through prescription and are more effective and include Flonase, Nasonex, and Beclovent. Side effects include cataracts, hypertension, headache, weight gain, and nasal ulcers.
But wait we’ve had a look at a variety of allergy medications but there are also several natural remedies and an allergy medication that contains no harsh chemicals is likely to make your body much happier.
Besides considering a natural allergy medication you might also consider giving your body’s immune system a boost with the right supplement. After all the cause of allergies is an immune system that is misfiring.
And that means that an allergy medication isn’t always the solution to the problem. Sure it will reduce the symptoms but it is doing nothing to actually get to the bottom of the problem.
Once you get the facts on allergy medication you are in a much better position to make educated choices that work for you, your type of allergy, and your person situation. Choose what’s right for you.
Dec
30
Ronnie Wilson asked:
Do you suffer from allergies? If you do, you may always be on the lookout for ways to seek relief. Although there are a number of natural ways that allergy sufferers are able to treat or manage their symptoms, many turn to medicine. Whether it be prescription medications or over-the-counter medications, many find themselves wondering which ones are the best.
When it comes to determining which allergy medications are the best, there are a number of important points that must first be taken into consideration. One of those points is the type of allergies. For example, different individuals suffer from different allergies. Some suffer from pet allergies, some suffer from mold allergies, some suffer from food allergies, and so forth. Some medications are better for those with certain allergies, as more targeted treatment is provided. One of the best approaches to take is to speak with a professional healthcare provider or do the research online.
Insurance is another factor that should be taken into consideration. Many individuals like to research and compare prescription medications and over-the-counter medications for allergies. With that being said, some individuals do not have the opportunity to try both. For example, if you do not have health insurance, you may be unable to afford the cost of a healthcare visit, as well as the cost of prescription medicine. If you are one of those individuals, you are encouraged to spend most of your time focusing on over-the-counter allergy medications. The good news, however, is that many medicines that were once only available with a prescription are now available without a prescription.
As for what allergy medications are the best, you will find that it all depends, as previously stated. A great way to get started is to speak with a healthcare provider. If you have health insurance, you are advised to schedule a visit with your doctor. In addition to getting a prescription, your doctor may be able to help you with other ways to manage or treat your allergy symptoms. Chances are if your doctor prescribes an allergy medication to you, that medicine is likely to work. If medicine is not prescribed, it is still a good idea to ask your doctor about over-the-counter products, namely which ones work the best.
If you must rely on over-the-counter allergy medicines or if you choose to do so, you may want to do a little bit of research first. There are a number of websites online that allow internet users to rate and review products. Walgreens and DrugStore.com are just a few of the online pharmacy websites that allow the rating and reviewing of products. You are encouraged to review these ratings, as well as read any reviews that accompany them. Of course, individuals respond differently to different over-the-counter products, but you can get a good idea as to whether you should buy the allergy relief product that you wanted to buy or if you should just save your money.
In addition to speaking with a healthcare provider or using the internet to research allergy medications, it is also a good idea to speak to those that you know. You may be surprised just how many individuals there are that suffer from allergies. There is a good chance that some of your friends, family members, neighbors, or coworkers suffer from allergies. If they do, inquire as to how they treat those symptoms. If they have tried multiple prescriptions or multiple over-the-counter allergy relief medications, which ones did they like or dislike and why? Were there side effects? These are all important questions that you will want to ask.
As a recap, there are a number of prescription medications and over-the-counter products that are known for their great results. With that being said, everyone reacts different to medications, especially where side effects are concerned. For that reason, you should develop a treatment plan with a professional healthcare provider or rely on trial and error with over-the-counter products.
Do you suffer from allergies? If you do, you may always be on the lookout for ways to seek relief. Although there are a number of natural ways that allergy sufferers are able to treat or manage their symptoms, many turn to medicine. Whether it be prescription medications or over-the-counter medications, many find themselves wondering which ones are the best.
When it comes to determining which allergy medications are the best, there are a number of important points that must first be taken into consideration. One of those points is the type of allergies. For example, different individuals suffer from different allergies. Some suffer from pet allergies, some suffer from mold allergies, some suffer from food allergies, and so forth. Some medications are better for those with certain allergies, as more targeted treatment is provided. One of the best approaches to take is to speak with a professional healthcare provider or do the research online.
Insurance is another factor that should be taken into consideration. Many individuals like to research and compare prescription medications and over-the-counter medications for allergies. With that being said, some individuals do not have the opportunity to try both. For example, if you do not have health insurance, you may be unable to afford the cost of a healthcare visit, as well as the cost of prescription medicine. If you are one of those individuals, you are encouraged to spend most of your time focusing on over-the-counter allergy medications. The good news, however, is that many medicines that were once only available with a prescription are now available without a prescription.
As for what allergy medications are the best, you will find that it all depends, as previously stated. A great way to get started is to speak with a healthcare provider. If you have health insurance, you are advised to schedule a visit with your doctor. In addition to getting a prescription, your doctor may be able to help you with other ways to manage or treat your allergy symptoms. Chances are if your doctor prescribes an allergy medication to you, that medicine is likely to work. If medicine is not prescribed, it is still a good idea to ask your doctor about over-the-counter products, namely which ones work the best.
If you must rely on over-the-counter allergy medicines or if you choose to do so, you may want to do a little bit of research first. There are a number of websites online that allow internet users to rate and review products. Walgreens and DrugStore.com are just a few of the online pharmacy websites that allow the rating and reviewing of products. You are encouraged to review these ratings, as well as read any reviews that accompany them. Of course, individuals respond differently to different over-the-counter products, but you can get a good idea as to whether you should buy the allergy relief product that you wanted to buy or if you should just save your money.
In addition to speaking with a healthcare provider or using the internet to research allergy medications, it is also a good idea to speak to those that you know. You may be surprised just how many individuals there are that suffer from allergies. There is a good chance that some of your friends, family members, neighbors, or coworkers suffer from allergies. If they do, inquire as to how they treat those symptoms. If they have tried multiple prescriptions or multiple over-the-counter allergy relief medications, which ones did they like or dislike and why? Were there side effects? These are all important questions that you will want to ask.
As a recap, there are a number of prescription medications and over-the-counter products that are known for their great results. With that being said, everyone reacts different to medications, especially where side effects are concerned. For that reason, you should develop a treatment plan with a professional healthcare provider or rely on trial and error with over-the-counter products.