A number of medications can help ease hay fever symptoms. Some relieve stuffy nose and congestion. On the other hand, some work on headache, nausea, and vision problems. There are a few potential side effects of allergic rhinitis medications. The common negative aftermaths are headache, nausea, drowsiness, and dry mouth. Moreover, other side effects people complain about are as follows-
- Constipation
- Blurred vision
- Impaired coordination and balance
If you experience any of these side effects while taking any remedy for your condition, be sure to talk to your doctor. He or she may want to alter your dosage or prescribe you additional medications to counteract these side effects.
Can medications for this disease interact with other drugs?
Such medications can be safe for most people. However, some factors can affect their safety. If you have any of the following conditions, let your doctor know before starting a new medication-
- Asthma
- Any allergies
- Difficulty swallowing
- Epilepsy
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Pregnancy
- Breast-feeding
Go after your doctor’s directions vigilantly when taking your medications. However, if you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. Medicines for allergic rhinitis can be an effective way to treat your symptoms. However, it is vital to be aware of the potential side effects. Talk to your doctor if you experience any problems while taking any treatment for allergic rhinitis.
What are the home remedies for hay fever?
There are no simple means to put a stop to the irritating symptoms. Nevertheless, you can ease the symptoms by using at-home remedies.
Drink lots of fluids, especially water.
Water helps thin out your blood. Moreover, it makes it easier for your body to filter pollen out of your system. You also need to stay hydrated when you have a stuffy nose. It will help loosen the mucus.
Drink tea.
Tea has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help ease your symptoms. Chamomile tea is a good choice, as it also helps promote relaxation. Moreover, it may also help you get to sleep if you are having trouble doing so.
Use a saline nasal spray.
It is an effective hay fever treatment. A saline nasal spray is effective and easy to use, especially if you have trouble with congestion or sinus infections. Add a few drops of saline solution into each nostril four times per day until your symptoms subside. Do not overuse the spray, as you could damage your nasal passages.
If you cannot tolerate the spray, use a neti pot instead to flush out pollen and other allergens from your nose.
Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
Take over-the-counter pain relievers for sinus headaches or other mild pains that arise due to allergic rhinitis. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are both effective options. However, take them before your symptoms start to flare up. They will not do much once the allergy attack has begun. Nevertheless, these pain relievers can help with your healing.
Avoid caffeine.
Avoid caffeine and other stimulants. They can contribute to sinus and headache pain, which further suppresses our immune system.
Take a warm bath.
If you have a pollen allergy, it is significant to try and reduce your exposure. You may be able to cut down on the amount of pollen coming into your house by taking a warm bath during prime hay fever season. Moreover, you can add some baking soda or Epsom salt for extra relief from congestion and sinus pressure.
Eat fresh fruit and vegetables.
Fresh produce is high in histamines. They can boost your immune system and alleviate allergy symptoms. Try to add plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to your food plate. You can consider-
- Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes)
- Berries (blueberries, raspberries)
- Crisp veggies (carrots, celery)
- Cucumbers
- Tomatoes
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
- Garlic
- Onions
These foods can support your allergic rhinitis treatment.
Avoid chewing gum.
Do not chew gums or use tobacco. They both can irritate your sinuses. Smoking increases your chances of getting hay fever because it affects the function of your immune system. Moreover, gums may help keep the membranes in your nose moist. It ultimately leads to increase pollen intake if you have a pollen allergy.
Reside indoors as much as possible when the counts of pollen are high.
Pollen counts are highest during the morning and evening hours. Therefore, try to schedule your outdoor activities during the middle of the day when levels are lower. If you have to go outside, avoid grassy and flower-filled areas.
Wear sunglasses when you are outdoors.
Sunglasses will prevent your eyes from pollen.
Keep your windows closed.
If it is not possible to remove your outdoor plants, keep the windows closed while pollen counts are high. Moreover, keeping the irritants away is an essential step towards easing hay fever.
Clean regularly.
Your symptoms may become poor by exposure to dust mites and other allergens that accumulate in our homes over time.
- Try to use an air filter, or at least vacuum your home frequently, especially if you have pets.
- Do not neglect your sinuses when you clean.
- Use a neti pot or saline nasal spray to flush out pollen and other allergens that may be lingering.
Use an indoor humidifier.
A humidifier can help keep your nasal passages moist, which helps ease allergy symptoms. Just make sure the humidifier has a filter to reduce dust, mold spores, and other allergens.
Take a shower or use a bath before going to bed.
The hot water may help open up your sinuses and flush pollen and other allergens from your body. However, if you cannot take a warm shower, try using a saline nasal spray. It may also keep the membranes in your nose moist and reduce the amount of pollen coming in contact with your nasal passages. They can help ease hay fever.
