Seasonal Allergy Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best treatment for allergies?
The best treatment for allergies is usually a combination of avoidance and allergy medicine. Second-generation antihistamines such as Zyrtec, Allegra, and Claritin are effective in relieving common allergic symptoms such as sneezing and a stuffy or runny nose. These can be combined with nasal corticosteroid sprays such as Flonase or Nasacort, which further reduce inflammation and irritation of the nose, sinuses, and throat.
How can I control my allergy symptoms?
You can take control and manage your allergy symptoms with a combination of exposure reduction and allergy medicine. For example, if pollen is the allergen, plan to stay indoors during high pollen count days, use a HEPA air filter indoors, vacuum carpets and dust your furniture frequently, or wear a mask if you have to go out.
If certain foods are the causes of allergic reactions, carefully read packaging labels and check with food handlers (in restaurant settings) before consumption. Further, preemptively taking allergy medicines such as antihistamines, nasal sprays, and decongestants can provide additional relief and help control allergy symptoms.
Can allergies cause a sore throat?
Yes, allergies can sometimes cause a sore throat along with other symptoms. As an allergic reaction, your immune system can flood the bloodstream with histamines, which increase mucus production and postnasal drip. This nasal discharge that runs down the back of your throat irritates the throat, causing a sore throat.
How is an allergy diagnosed?
Doctors can perform a few tests to help diagnose allergies. The most common of these tests is the skin prick test. A small and inconspicuous area on the forearms is typically chosen. The doctor pricks your skin and exposes the skin to the allergen. An allergic reaction can become visible within 15 minutes or so. Other available tests are the patch and blood tests.
What helps relieve allergies fast?
Antihistamines such as Zyrtec, Allegra, and Claritin can help relieve allergies fast and help with common allergic symptoms such as sneezing or a runny and stuffy nose. Other allergy medicines that can help relieve allergic nasal symptoms are nasal steroids such as Flonase and Nasacort. Additionally, the tablet called Singulair (montelukast) can tackle both asthma and allergy symptoms if taken daily. Finally, immunotherapy shots or tablets given by an Allergist can help reduce and prevent severe allergy symptoms.
How can I get allergy testing?
You can typically get allergy testing at a doctor's office during consultation. The skin prick test is commonly performed and results are typically available within 15 mins or so. If the skin test cannot be performed, then sometimes pecific IgE (sIgE) blood testing can be performed.
