Are you suffering from an allergy? Well, many of us suffer from the most common allergy called the dust or winter months allergy. Allergic rhinitis is a very common problem which many of us encounter. Sometimes, we tend to ignore the symptoms if they are minimal. Ignoring the minor symptoms of allergic rhinitis or runny or blocked nose can lead to major problems of sinusitis. It is important to address the chronicity of the problem at the correct stage. If the problem is ignored at the initial stages, it can turn into a recurrent chronic nuisance of the blocked or runny nose which can be difficult to treat. 

A solution to allergic rhinitis : Antihistamines come to rescue

Antihistamine drugs are the same as antiallergens. When you get any form of allergy, we tend to pop in a pill of anti-Allergan which provides a protective shield against the allergens. Allergens are available over the counter as well. Many patients consult doctors once and keep that Allergan in mind and pop in the next time. Anti allergens are also taken as SOS pills which means as an when required. These are also available OTC ( Over counter). But, it is important to be specific. Anti-allergens or antihistamines are generally used for any kind of allergy-like the skin or the nasal allergy. So instead being more specific is important. For example, in the case of allergic rhinitis, targeting the nose is a better option with nasal sprays and inhalers. This improves the systemic absorption at the target organs.

How anti- histaminic works 

Antihistamines are a group of medicines that act by blocking the action of a chemical called histamine in the body. Either H1 or H2 histamine receptors can be blocked by medicines but the group is commonly known as the antihistamines. There are a number of uses but they commonly treat allergies. If you have any people getting allergies every year, you might be aware of all the antihistamines. This is the most common use of allergies. There are various problems like 

Hives  Urticaria  Itching  Feeling sick like nausea or vomiting  Feeling allergic  Severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis reaction 

What conditions are antihistamines used to treat?

Antihistamines are commonly used :

To relieve symptoms associated with allergic seasonal symptoms. These include : Inflammation of nose  Sneezing  Itching of nose  Runny nose  To reduce the duration, frequency, and severity of the allergies.

What causes an allergic reaction?

An allergic reaction is the body’s response to a usually harmless substance or Allergan, that triggers the immune system to overreact. Histamine is a chemical produced in the body and is part of the immune system. When histamine is released in response to the allergy triggers, allergy symptoms can result. Common types of allergies include food allergies, allergies to insect bites or stings, and respiratory allergies. 

FDA approves nasal antihistamine for nonprescription use

The FDA approves a nasal antihistamine spray for nonprescription use. The FDA approved Asteopro (Azelastine Hydrochloride nasal spray 0.15%) for seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis- commonly known as allergies - for adults and children six years of age and older. 

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