All articles tagged with #antihistamines
Recent studies suggest that over-the-counter antihistamines, especially first-generation types like Benadryl, may increase the risk of dementia by affecting brain chemicals, prompting caution and consultation with healthcare providers for safer alternatives.
As 2024 concludes, researchers have identified several promising treatments for long COVID, a condition affecting 17 million Americans. Low-dose naltrexone, SSRIs, modafinil, metformin, and antihistamines have shown potential in alleviating symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, and pain. However, the effectiveness of these treatments varies among patients, and large-scale clinical trials are still needed to determine their efficacy and safety. Physicians caution against indiscriminate use due to potential risks and interactions.
Experts recommend starting antihistamines before allergy symptoms appear, as seasonal allergies are kicking off early this spring due to global warming. Richmond is ranked as one of the top 10 most challenging places to live with seasonal allergies. Aside from taking over-the-counter medicine, experts advise avoiding pollen, wearing masks outdoors, and doing saline rinses to alleviate symptoms.
Medical experts are reporting a rise in cases of Autumn Sneezing Syndrome, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, during the colder months. Many individuals are experiencing sneezing fits and runny noses without other cold or flu symptoms, leading them to believe they have a different illness. The increase in cases may be attributed to higher levels of airborne mould and fungal spores during autumn, which can trigger hay fever allergies. Common triggers include dead vegetation, grass cuttings, compost heaps, and garden sheds. Allergy experts recommend taking antihistamines and using nasal steroid sprays to alleviate symptoms. Showering and changing clothes after being outside in areas with high mould spore levels can also help reduce exposure.
A reader asks Dr. Keith Roach about histamine intolerance and its connection to high-histamine foods. Dr. Roach explains that there is no evidence of a deficiency in the enzymes that metabolize histamine and that treatment with diamine oxidase (DAO) has not been proven effective. Instead, he suggests trying newer antihistamines like cetirizine or fexofenadine, along with an H2 antihistamine like famotidine. Another approach is using Cromolyn before eating. In another question, Dr. Roach addresses numbness and burning in the outer thigh, which could be a result of nerve compression known as meralgia paresthetica. He recommends avoiding compression, and if necessary, seeking a nerve block or using medications for neuropathic pain.
Medical experts are sharing alternative options for allergy sufferers after the FDA declared oral forms of phenylephrine, a popular nasal decongestant found in over-the-counter medications, ineffective. Doctors recommend using corticosteroid nasal sprays like Flonase or oxymetazoline nasal sprays like Afrin and Zicam for temporary relief. Pseudoephedrine, found in Sudafed, is still a viable option for congestion relief but has more restrictions. Oral antihistamines like Zyrtec, Allegra, and Claritin are recommended to treat seasonal allergies. Steam, rest, and relaxation are also suggested to alleviate symptoms.
Seasonal allergies can affect people year-round, including during the winter. Winter allergies are often triggered by spending more time indoors surrounded by allergens. Most people with allergies rely on antihistamines to treat their symptoms. Antihistamines work by blocking the body's response to histamine, a chemical produced by the immune system in response to allergens. Common antihistamines include loratadine, fexofenadine, cetirizine, diphenhydramine, levocetirizine, and hydroxyzine. While antihistamines are generally considered safe, they can have mild side effects such as drowsiness and dryness. Serious side effects are rare but should be reported to a physician. Antihistamines are important for relieving allergy symptoms caused by histamine release from allergens.
The Bay Area is experiencing a severe allergy season due to the delayed and prolonged pollen season caused by the winter rains. It can be difficult to differentiate between COVID-19 and allergies, but a fever, sore throat, and headache are more likely to indicate a viral illness, while sneezing, itching, and red, watery eyes are more likely to be allergies. Global warming may worsen allergy season in the future. Over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal sprays can help alleviate allergy symptoms.
Vaginal allergies, also known as allergic vaginitis, is an underdiagnosed condition that can cause inflammation, itching, redness, and overall discomfort in the vulva. The skin on the inside of the vulva and vagina is porous and can absorb allergens, resulting in an allergic reaction. Exposure to contact allergens such as fragrance, preservatives, and medicine can cause an allergic reaction in the vagina or on the vulva. Antihistamines, sublingual immunotherapy, and removing exposure to the allergen are some of the treatment options.
Pollen is causing allergies in Massachusetts, with many experiencing worse symptoms than before. Doctors recommend using air conditioners with filters and taking over-the-counter antihistamines like Claritin or Zyrtec. Windy afternoons are the worst time to go outside, while mornings are better due to the morning dew keeping pollen down.
Melatonin and sleep aids containing antihistamines may lead to dependence and tolerance, according to Dr. Jing Liu of Sol Nutrition. While melatonin supplements are not typically considered addictive, they can cause dependence in some individuals if used for long periods. Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine and doxylamine, which are frequently used to treat colds, flus, and allergies, are also a common ingredient in many over-the-counter sleep aids. Safer alternatives include L-theanine and prioritizing good sleep hygiene and sticking to a consistent sleep schedule.
Melatonin and sleep aids containing antihistamines may lead to dependence and tolerance, according to Dr. Jing Liu, OMD, PHD of Sol Nutrition. While melatonin supplements are not typically considered addictive, they can cause dependence in some individuals if used for long periods. Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine and doxylamine, which are frequently used to treat colds, flus, and allergies, are also a common ingredient in many over-the-counter sleep aids. Instead, safer alternatives like L-theanine and good sleep hygiene should be considered.
Experts warn that Southern California will experience one of the worst spring allergy seasons due to the unusually high amount of rain that has broken up pollen. To avoid symptoms, allergist-immunologist Dr. Salima Thobani advises people to start using nasal steroid spray a couple of weeks before the season starts, take over-the-counter antihistamines, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses while hiking, and stay on top of the pollen forecast. Thobani also recommends using masks to keep allergens from getting to your nose and taking a shower after being exposed to pollen.