Allergy is a hypersensitivity disorder that is occurs when a person is exposed to allergens. They are foreign bodies that can cause an allergic reaction. The immune system produces antibodies that help in protection from these reactions. When the immune system is ineffective to allergens, reactions occur in the body and cause symptoms like runny nose and watery eyes.

Usually those with a compromised immune system are prone to allergic reactions. Generally children are more susceptible to allergies as their immunity has not fully developed. The severity of an allergy varies from person to person. These reactions can be mild like skin irritation to fatal conditions such as anaphylactic shocks.

1. Symptoms of Allergies

The symptoms of allergic reactions are different for the various types of allergies. Here are some of the symptoms.

• Congestion of nose
• Conjunctivitis
• Itchy and red skin
• Urticaria
• Excess nasal discharge (rhinorrhea)
• Swelling of throat, tongue, lips or face
• Tingling sensation in the mouth
• Anaphylaxis

Itching, hives, respiratory issues, peeling of skin could also occur due to allergic reactions from certain medications. You should consult the doctor and understand the adverse effects that a drug could cause.

2. How to Get Relief from Allergies?

Until now there have no medicines that can cure allergies, but there a lot of drugs that help in providing relief from the symptoms of allergic reactions. Some of the treatments are:

1. Antihistamines

The first-line of therapy for the treatment of allergies is antihistamines. These medicines can be availed in various forms like pills, nasal sprays, liquid and eye drops. Some antihistamines are also available over-the-counter (OTC). Usually they are in the form of eye drops. For the treatment of seasonal and perennial allergies nasal sprays may be prescribed.

The main action of these drugs is the reduction of the substance histamine which causes reactions like itching, swelling and redness. It is advisable that you talk to your healthcare expert before taking any type of antihistamines. There are three subclasses of antihistamines; first generation, second generation and third generation. Usually the medical advisors advice avoiding the first generation antihistamines as they cause drowsiness in many people.

2. Decongestants

Generally decongestants are prescribed along with antihistamines. They too are available in forms like pills, drops and oral suspension. However, experts usually suggest using nasal sprays and eye drops decongestants for a shorter period of time as long-term use can worsen the symptoms. An allergic reaction occurs when the upper respiratory tract gets inflamed. Decongestants helping in reducing the inflammation and alleviates the symptoms like skin itchiness, redness and nasal congestion.

3. Corticosteroids

Also known as steroid, corticosteroids are used to treat many allergic reactions like runny nose, sneezing and nasal blockage. These medications block the secretion of histamines and prostaglandins. The increase of these chemicals causes many allergic reactions.  These drugs are available in forms like pills, liquids, nasal sprays, inhalers, eye drops and topical cream. Corticosteroids may also be helpful to people suffering from asthma skin allergies, conjunctivitis and seasonal or year-round allergies. Generally corticosteroids are not prescribed to pregnant women as they can cause severe damage to the fetus.

4. Bronchodilators

Short-acting bronchodilators are prescriptions drugs and should not be taken without first consulting your medical expert. These drugs are used to get relief from symptoms during an asthma attack. Bronchodilators may also be used to treat COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). Usually three types of bronchodilators are used such as beta-2 agonists, anticholinergics and theophylline.

5. Mast Cell Stabilizers

These medicines are suggested to treat mild to moderate swelling of the respiratory tract and other symptoms of an allergic reaction. Mast cell stabilizers work by inhibit histamine in the mast cells. These medicines also have some anti-inflammatory properties but they are not as effective as corticosteroids. These medications may also be given for the prevention of allergies.

6. Leukotriene Modifiers

Leukotriene modifiers are usually used to treat symptoms of nasal asthma and allergies. Leukotrienes are produced when a person has an allergic reaction. These medicines block the secretion of leukotrienes and provide relief from allergies. These drugs cannot be taken if a prescription is not provided by the physician.

7. Allergen Immunotherapy

This technique is used to build tolerance to allergens that are causing or can cause allergic reactions. However, allergen immunotherapy can cause serious side reactions like anaphylaxis and hence this method is usually done under the supervision of a physician.