Tips to Remember: Asthma & Allergy Medications More than 50 million people in the U.S. suffer from asthma and allergies. Fortunately, today there are many effective medications available to treat these conditions. The following information is intended to help asthma and allergy sufferers better understand the most commonly used types of medications. Antihistamines If you have allergies, your physician may prescribe antihistamines, which are used to relieve or prevent the symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and other allergies. Antihistamines can lessen your symptoms reflux asthma reflux asthma by preventing the effects of histamine-a chemical substance produced by the body during an allergic reaction. Antihistamines, which come in tablet, capsule, liquid or injection form, are available by prescription as well as over-the-counter. Most over-the-counter antihistamines can cause drowsiness. Newer prescription antihistamines rarely cause this side effect. Other common side effects of antihistamines include dehydration-dry mouth, difficulty urinating, dry eyes or constipation. After taking antihistamines, some children may experience nightmares, unusual jumpiness or nervousness, restlessness or irritability. Decongestants Decongestants are used to treat nasal hpv and asthma reflux asthma congestion and other symptoms associated with colds and allergies. They work by shrinking blood vessels, thereby decreasing the amount of fluid that leaks out and lessening nasal congestion. Decongestants are available in liquid and tablet form, both over-the-counter and by prescription. Many medications combine both antihistamines and decongestants to relieve a larger range of symptoms. Side effects of decongestants can include nervousness, sleeplessness or elevation in blood pressure. Decongestants are also available in nose spray or drop form for acute congestion. However, over-the-counter treatments asthma reflux asthma nasal sprays should not be used more than three to four days in a row. If used for a prolonged period of time, over-the-counter nose sprays can cause "rebound rhinitis," actually increasing your nasal congestion. Prescription nasal sprays and drops do not have this effect and can be used for longer periods of time, as prescribed by your physician. Anti-inflammatory agents People with asthma have inflamed airways. This inflammation causes the bronchi-the main branches leading from the throat to the lungs-to become overly reactive. skin asthma reflux asthma The airways are
