Although there is no cure for allergies, there are several treatments, which help ease the symptoms and the discomfort they cause. Antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroid sprays, oral corticosteroids etc are commonly used to treat allergies. OTC products like saline and artificial tears can help reduce symptoms.

An antihistamine as the name suggests suppresses the action of histamines that are responsible for the allergic response. They come in the form of pills, nasal sprays, eye drops and syrups.

Decongestants relieve tissue swelling and cause constriction of blood vessels thereby reducing redness, congestion and mucous secretion.

Corticosteroids are used for serious allergies and work by reducing inflammation and swelling. They are available in the form of sprays or injections.

Bronchodilators relax muscle bands around airways, thereby reducing congestion and reduce chest tightness. These are inhaled drugs.

Mast cell stabilizers are available as nasal sprays, eye drops and inhalers. They work by stopping the release of histamine from mast cells.

Leukotriene modifiers are available only with a doctor’s prescription. They come in the form of pills, granules or chewable tablets.
Allergy shots are an effective step to reduce the incidence of allergies. These shots work by exposing the body to increasing levels of the allergen so that the immune system develops tolerance to the allergen.