Treatment & Care

You can treat allergy symptoms with over-the-counter and prescription medications, as well as allergy shots.  Lifestyle changes like using air filters and avoiding triggers are important, too. 

1. Allergy Medications

   1. Types of Allergy MedicationsLearn all about the different over-the-counter and prescription medicines that can help ease annoying symptoms.
   2. What Are Antihistamines?When medicine is needed to stem allergy symptoms, antihistamines are often first in line. Find out how they can help and learn about possible side effects.
   3. How Decongestants WorkWhen allergies make your nose stuffed up, an antihistamine generally won't help. But a decongestant might.
   4. Anticholinergic Nasal Allergy SpraysAtrovent nasal spray can help with the runny nose that may come with allergies. Find out if it’s right for you.
   5. Steroid Nasal SpraysNasal steroid sprays are available over the counter or by prescription.  They are often the first treatment recommended for nasal allergies.
   6. Allergy Eye DropsAllergy eyedrops are liquid medicines used to treat symptoms of eye allergies.
   7. Leukotriene InhibitorsMontelukast (Singulair) is a prescription drug that reduces congestion in your nose, cuts down on sneezing, itching, and eye allergies, and reduces inflammation in your airways.
   8. Mast Cell InhibitorsCromolyn sodium (Nasalcrom, Crolom), a mast cell inhibitor, is used to prevent allergic symptoms like runny nose and itchy eyes. 
   9. Allergy ShotsAllergy shots help your body get used to things that trigger an allergic reaction. They aren't a cure, but in time your symptoms may improve and become less frequent.
   10. When to Use Your Auto-InjectorAn auto-injector -- such as EpiPen, Twinject, or Auvi-Q -- can treat extreme allergic reactions with an early, life-saving dose of epinephrine.

2. Living With Allergies

   1. Non-Drug Treatments for AllergiesNatural treatments can't replace allergy medications, but they can work alongside them. From acupuncture to supplements, here are some things that may help you breathe easier,
   2. Allergy-Proof Your EnvironmentMedicines help treat allergy symptoms once they strike. But these easy steps can help you avoid having an attack no matter where you are.
   3. Dehumidifiers for AllergiesMold, mildew, and dust mites don’t have to make you miserable. A home dehumidifier can help you breathe again.
   4. Dust Mite Mattress and Pillow CoversSpecial mattress and pillow covers can protect against dust mites, microscopic creatures that can trigger dust allergies. 
   5. Avoiding Food Allergy TriggersFood allergies can be serious, but you can take steps to manage them. One of the best things you can do is avoid your trigger foods.
   6. Handing Allergies at SchoolEasing your child's allergy symptoms may boost her academic and social life as well.