Interventions

Allergy shots

(Immunotherapy)

An allergy shot contains a very small amount of the substance that you are allergic to (the allergen). They are not recommened for people under the age of 5. They usually take 6 months to begin working, if you don't notice your allergies leaving then you might want to consult your doctor about other treatments.

Medications

(Antihistamines)

Histamines are powerful stimulants which can cause a lot of irratation within ones body. This irratation is called an allergic reaction, depending on the severity of the reaction, can lead to many common symptoms. When a antihistamine is given to someone, it prevents the histamine on reaching the receptors on the cells, which prevents an allergic reaction.

(Decongestants)

These drugs decrease nasal congestion by causing the blood vessels to narrow or constrict and reducing blood flow to the nasal passage. Decongestants also open clogged nasal passageways and have a drying effect. Some over the counter decongestants are Benadryl, Claritin, Chlor-Trimeton, Dimetane, Zyrtec, and Tavist. Ocu-Hist is an OTC eye drop. Some prescription decongestants are Clarinex, Xyzal, and Allegra. Astelin is a prescription nasal spray. Eye drops include Emadine and Livostin.

(Herbal Meds)

Garlic (Allium sativum) and onion (A. cepa)

These slow down inflammatory reactions.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Interferes with the production of a chemical in our body - platelet-activating factor which plays a large role in allergies and asthma.

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Helps control allergic nasal symptoms.

Camomile (Matricaria recutita)

Helps with skin allergies ( hives or itching ).

Horseradish (Amoracia rusticana)

Helps to clear sinuses.

The easiest way to control your allergies is avoiding them, as much as you can. Keep a clean house, keep all windows closed, and don't have anypets .