Your eyes are red, your nose is runny, andworst of allyoure sneezing 24/7.
So, you grab yourgo-to antihistamineto help relieve those symptoms.
But when is the best time to take allergy meds for maximum effectiveness?
Experts share more about allergy medication timing here.
Thats why experts say you should actually venture to take your antihistaminesbeforeyou go to bed at night.
Because some antihistamines make you drowsy, its actually best to take them before bedtime.
allergist, immunologist, and medical advisor with theAllergy &
(And then secure your mornings for a dose ofcoffee to help with seasonal allergy symptoms.)
Allergists recommend you start your meds two to four weeks before your allergy season begins.
Seasonal allergies of course will depend on where you live.
And fall allergies typically begin in August and last through November.
Many are also available over-the-counter (OTC), but some do require a prescription from a doctor.
Heres a breakdown of each:
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are the most common allergy medication.
Theyre an OTC option that fights allergy symptoms like itching and stuffiness, per theCleveland Clinic.
Dosing depends on the medication you choose.
Most second-generation antihistamines, like Claritin or Allegra, dont make you drowsy, per theCleveland Clinic.
allergist, immunologist, and medical advisor with theAllergy &
Unlike antihistamines, decongestants shouldnotbe used every single dayonly on your most difficult allergy days.
You should also limit your decongestant use to no more than 10 to 14 days at a time.
Nasal sprays
Nasal sprays are the perfect on-the-go option.
Plus, they work just as well as other medications to reduce nose inflammation.
This is why its best not to use them more than three days in a row.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
In the meantime, venture to stick to the saline-based stuff as you prep for allergy season.
Eye drops
Itchy, watery eyes are just theworst.
Thats where eye drops come in.
They can help relieve eye-allergy symptoms like redness, swelling, and burning, per theENT and Allergy Specialists.
it’s possible for you to get eye drops over-the-counter or in prescription form from your doctor.
But keep in mind, these arent a long-term solution.
For that reason, they shouldnt be used for longer than a week.
FAQ
Should you take allergy medicine every day?
This will depend on the pop in of medication you reach for.
While antihistamines like Claritin are generally safe for everyday use, decongestants like Zyrtec-D or Allegra-D are likely not.
If youre unsure about which types of medicines can be taken every day, talk to your doctor.
How much antihistamine can you take in 24 hours?
The amount you take will depend on the strength of the antihistamine, per the Mayo Clinic.
Is it better to take allergy medicine before or after eating?
Allergy medicine can be taken with or without food.
When should antihistamines be avoided?
You may have to avoid antihistamines if you have certain chronic health conditions like high blood pressure.
Another bad combo?Antihistamines and alcohol.
Side effects can be excessive drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, and increased risk of injury.
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