Avoiding the Allergy Trigger

• Identifying an allergy trigger is a key to determining how to treat the symptoms. Once the source of the allergy--such as pollen, mold, dust or pet dander--is known, the sufferer can take steps to avoid it.
  
  

Antihistamines and Decongestants

• Antihistamines and decongestants can be taken to reduce the severity of allergy symptoms. These medications can relieve many upper respiratory allergy symptoms; antihistamines can also help with rashes or hives.
  
  

Nasal Steroid Sprays

• Prescription nasal steroid sprays help to ease allergy symptoms by reducing nasal cavity inflammation. Patients may not feel the full benefits of nasal steroid sprays until several weeks after beginning treatment.
  
  

Eye Drops

• Eye drops can be used to treat certain allergy symptoms, including eye redness and itching. The drops may be available over-the-counter or by prescription.
  
  

Allergy Shots

• Allergy shots can relieve severe allergy symptoms by helping the sufferer develop an increased immunity to the allergen. Once the allergy trigger is identified, regular injections containing increasing amounts of the allergen are given over a period of months or years.
  
  

Emergency Treatment

• For allergy sufferers who have severe, even life-threatening allergic reactions, a doctor may prescribe an injection of a drug called epinephrine. These allergy sufferers can carry this portable injection for use in emergencies.