In medical treatment, the key to allergy treatment is avoiding the allergen. This may be possible for people with pet allergies. It is less practical for those who are sensitive to pollens and molds. With natural treatment, the approach is to "beef-up" the person's immune response
(see below) so that the body can effectively deal with the invading allergen.
Oral antihistamines are used for short-term allergic disease. Common antihistamines include diphenhydramine, loratadine, and fexofenadine. They are very effective in controlling symptoms such as sneezing and nasal discharge.
Antihistamines generally don't reduce nasal stuffiness. It is common to add a decongestant, such as pseudoephedrine, to an antihistamine. For severe, acute flare-ups, oral steroids, such as prednisone, are used. Steroids block the allergic response.
Nasal steroid sprays, such as beclomethasone and mometasone, are used for prolonged allergies. These agents have been around for about 20 years, and very safe. They control acute symptoms more effectively than antihistamines. Nasal steroids also block the late-phase reaction.
Air filters and frequent vacuuming are helpful. Salt water nasal sprays and mucus thinners, such as guaifenesin, can thin nasal secretions.
Allergy shots can be used in people who have chronic or prolonged periods of allergic disease. The shots desensitize the person to the trigger. They may be given to individuals who are having complications, such as asthma or chronic sinusitis.
Many over-the-counter antihistamines cause drowsiness and decreased mental alertness. These side effects are less common with newer prescription antihistamines. These include loratadine and certirizine.
Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine, can cause elevation of blood pressure, fast heart rate, and difficulty sleeping.
Nasal steroids may cause nosebleeds and nasal crusts.
There are a few acute side effects from oral steroids, such as increased appetite, irritability, sleeplessness, weight gain, and stomach irritation. Chronic steroid usage can cause bone thinning, predisposition to infection,
diabetes, and
cataracts.
Allergy shots may cause a severe allergic reaction or
anaphylaxis. They may also bring on an
asthma attack.
With successful treatment of allergies, symptoms should improve.
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
Many allergens are present in the air, so it may be very difficult for some people to prevent nasal allergies.
Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine or chlorpheniramine, can block the symptoms. Nasal steroid sprays, such as cromolyn, help to stop mast cells from releasing their substances. Nasal steroids stop the mast cell from discharging and thus prevent early symptoms.
As previously mentioned above, the approach in treating allergies in a natural sense is to repair those body systems which are not meeting the demands of the invading allergen. CRA is very accurate in determining the cause of lowered resistance.
These reflexes should be tested and treated with the proper supplementation. You should take this preliminary free test or be examined by a competent health care practitioner for testing. A liver/gallbladder flush and intestinal detoxification program may also be recommended.
