Allergy
Did you know?
Allergies are a major cause of illness in the United States. As many as 50 million people - about one in five - have allergies according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.
Common allergy symptoms:
1) Runny, stuffy nose and sneezing
2) Watery eyes
3) Wheezing and shortness of breath (common symptom of asthma)
4) Rash
5) Fatigue
6) Headache
Immediate Relief Options | Long-Acting Options | Bug Repellent
**Note: If experiencing a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis must call 911 immediately! (trouble breathing, hives or swelling, tightness in the throat, hoarse voice, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, low blood pressure, rapid heart beat, cardiac arrest)
OTC Treatment Options:
Immediate relief of mild to moderate allergic reactions or allergy symptoms:
Benadryl Every 4 to 8 hours; max of 300mg per day. Will cause drowsiness in adults (may cause hyper activity in children; DO NOT use in children less than 6 years old unless prescribed by doctor)
Chlorpheniramine Every 4 to 6 hours; do not exceed 24mg in 24 hours; may cause drowsiness
Long-acting/Daily relief of allergies:
1) Zyrtec (ceterizine) 5-10mg po daily (may cause drowsiness)
2) Claritin 10mg once daily or 5mg twice daily (RediTabs)
3) Allegra 60mg twice daily or 180mg once daily
4) Flonase nasal spray (Do NOT use more than 6 months unless instructed by your doctor)
5) Nasacort nasal spray (Stop use after one week, if no relief)