Allergy shots are given to some people who have persistent and disruptive allergy symptoms. The shots do not treat symptoms, but by altering the immune response they prevent future reactions. (This is referred to as immunotherapy.) Treatment involves a series of shots, each containing a slightly greater amount of the antigen(s) that cause the reaction. Ideally, the person will become "desensitized" to the antigen(s) over time. The effectiveness of shots varies by individual.
Anti-allergy medications are of many types. The choice of medication and how it is given depends on the severity of the reaction.
For relief of long-term allergies such as hay fever or reactions to dust or animal dander, the following medications may be prescribed.
Long-acting prescription antihistamines, such as cetirizine (Zyrtec), fexofenadine (Allegra), and loratadine (Claritin), can relieve symptoms without causing sleepiness. They are meant to be taken for months at a time, even indefinitely. Most have to be taken only once a day and last for 24 hours.
Nasal corticosteroid sprays are widely prescribed for nasal symptoms not relieved by antihistamines. These prescription medications work very well and are safe, without the side effects of taking steroids by mouth or injection. These sprays take a few days to take effect, and must be used every day. Examples are fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), and triamcinolone (Nasacort).
In some people, cromolyn sodium nasal spray prevents allergic rhinitis, inflammation of the nose that occurs as an allergic reaction. Decongestants can restore sinus drainage, relieving symptoms such as nasal congestion and swelling and runny nose and sinus pain (pain or pressure in the face, especially around the eyes). They are available in oral forms and as nasal sprays. They should be used for only a few days, as they may have side effects such as high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and nervousness.
Self-care at home is not enough in severe reactions. A severe reaction is a medical emergency. Do not attempt to treat or "wait out" severe reactions at home. Go immediately to a hospital emergency department. If no one is available to drive you right away, call 911 for emergency medical transport. For more information on what to do in a severe reaction, see Anaphylaxis.
An oral antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Caution these may make you too drowsy to drive or operate machinery safely. They can affect concentration and interfere with children's learning in school. These medications should be taken for only a few days. For rashes, an anti-inflammatory steroid cream such as hydrocortisone
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
Mental weakness
By: bk syan | 19-08-2008
Do vitamin B-6, B-12, E and folic acid help memory and mental concentration
Seroma or rather unremoved tissue
By: bigedsnh | 19-08-2008
My wife has to go in for "revision" surgery for what we were told was a seroma build up below the incision that was evident after her bandages were removed. The doctor said he had a "hard time" in working with the top of the breast, but the top came out flat and without incident, but the bottom had a one inch tall protrusion along the bottom of the scar. I was concerned that maybe the surgeon did not fully complete the mastectomy due to the extra time required to do the top section. How can I gracefully inquire if the bulge is truly a seroma or rather un-removed tissue (or both)? Ed
May I take secotex in a different time?
By: Milton B Oliveira | 19-08-2008
May I take secotex in a different time, for instance, one 0,4 mg each 48 h? Is it can cause a danger effect in short time? This question is based on I did it and my health quality was good during this time.
Hospital Contractor
By: Nick Scheessele | 18-08-2008
Who is the contractor for the new hospital? When is the anticipated start of construction.
Penicillin allergy test
By: vng7878 | 18-08-2008
Can I see a family doctor for a penicillin allergy test or do I have to see an allergist only? How much does this cost approximately?
Question on Chihuahuas
By: hartzells501 | 18-08-2008
Do Blue chihuahuas have any particular health issues?
hartzells501@aol.com
Q&A Powered by:
Latest Health Articles
The Dreaded Back Pain
By: Mandy Chagger | 06/09/2008
The most dreaded back pain is lower back pain, which could be a symptom of various complications in the abdomen area.
Stress - Types, Causes and Cures (part Three)
By: Andrew Tomkinson | 06/09/2008
This article is part one of my article series 'Stress - types, causes and cures'. It is written in order to introduce you to the types and causes of stress and suggest possible cures.
What are Toxins and How Do I Get Rid of Them?
By: James Carden | 06/09/2008
Toxins are an integral part of our everyday lives. Pollution, pesticides, cigarettes, bad water and harmful cleaning products are only a few of the different sources of toxins that can cause our bodies to malfunction and that we come in contact with on a daily basis.
Sun Damage Prevention
By: John Russell | 06/09/2008
In our continuing efforts to maintain youthful skin, we cannot neglect what may be the one true beauty secret. Effective protection from the sun can prevent damage to the skin. Even without actual sunburn, exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun can cause wrinkles, age spots, skin cancer, and other generally weathering effects.
What Makes Smoke Inhalation Dangerous
By: Rachel Yoshida | 06/09/2008
Most would agree that it is not natural, but what really happens when smoke is inhaled?
Dealing With Menstrual Flooding
By: Rachel Yoshida | 06/09/2008
It is not a popular subject,but there are many that needs this information if you are having trouble in this area.
Treatments And Medications for ADHD
By: Paul Hata | 06/09/2008
There are mainly two types of treatment which is generally used to cure the ADHD types of treatment for ADHD; pharmacological and non-pharmacological. It is been found out in various studies that 70% to 80% children are benefited by the stimulant drugs.
How to Prevent Stomach Ache and Abdominal Pain
By: Robert Sifer | 05/09/2008
For stomachache in children, parents should notice habits and symptoms of their children. For adults, they also should notice themselves which food that they consume always cause stomach pain to them and try not to eat those food.
More from Alisha Dhamani
Hay Fever Therapy And Treatment
By: Alisha Dhamani | 03/09/2008 | Health
Immunotherapy is an alternative if medical therapy is not helpful.
What Is Hay Fever And Its Causes
By: Alisha Dhamani | 03/09/2008 | Health
Most likely you or someone you know has allergies. The telltale itchy, puffy, watery eyes and red, stuffy nose signal changes in the seasons in homes and workplaces across the country.
The Side Effects Of Allergy Treatments
By: Alisha Dhamani | 15/08/2008 | Health
Generally, allergy shots are safe, with minimal side effects.
The Facts About Food Allergy
By: Alisha Dhamani | 14/08/2008 | Health
For someone with a food allergy, eating or swallowing even a tiny amount of a particular food can cause symptoms such as skin rash, nausea, vomiting, cramping, and diarrhea.
The Treatment For Hay Fever
By: Alisha Dhamani | 25/07/2008 | Health
Hay fever does not always require medical treatment.
The Examination Of Insect Sting Allergy
By: Alisha Dhamani | 25/07/2008 | Health
One or more prior severe reactions to an insect sting place you at an increased risk of severe reactions with each sting.
The Prevention Of Hives And Angiodema
By: Alisha Dhamani | 25/07/2008 | Health
Take all prescribed medicines as directed except for those drugs you are instructed to take only as needed.
The Prevention Of Insect Sting Allergy
By: Alisha Dhamani | 25/07/2008 | Health
Take precautions to avoid insect stings in the future. Avoid nests or hives of stinging insects.
Health 
