Antihistamines:

These drugs work by drying up the mucous membranes (and blocking the histamine that is released from the nasal mast cell). They are available both over-the-counter and by prescription. Many over the counter antihistamines will make you sleepy. Some newer prescription antihistamines last longer and do not make you sleepy. There is also one antihistamine which is available as a nasal spray (Astelin spray) which has a direct effect on the nose without the other sleepiness side effects.

Decongestants:

These drugs reduce the swelling in your nasal passages and let you breath easier. Decongestants may cause you to be jittery and have a hard time sleeping. You may also find combinations of decongestants and antihistamines in the drug store. These medications are not recommended if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, or thyroid disease.

Nasal sprays:

There are a variety of nasal sprays that are sold to help allergies. Nasal sprays can be decongestants, cromolyn sodium, corticosteroids, or simply saline. Decongestant nasal sprays (Afrin, oxymetazoline, Neosynephrine) should not be used for more than three days at a time. They work by reducing swelling in the nasal passages and are available over the counter. Cromolyn sodium sprays work by blocking the release of those chemicals that cause your body to react to the allergen. They must be used regularly to help prevent symptoms from occurring, and they require a prescription. Corticosteroid sprays reduce the inflammation that allergic reactions cause. They too must be used regularly to prevent symptoms from occurring and also require a prescription. Saline sprays help moisturize the nose but otherwise have no benefit for allergic or non-allergic rhinitis.

Leukotriene inhibitors:

A new drug is now available (Monoleukast-Singulaire) which blocks the allergy pathway and helps prevent the reaction between the IgE and the allergen. This medication is taken once daily and has minimal side effects.

Avoidance therapy:

You may be asked to avoid what you are allergic to. If you are allergic to dust or dust mites, you should purchase special pillow cases and mattress covers which reduce your exposure to the dust and dust mite and you should wash your bedding in hot water weekly. Other measures include frequent vacuuming, removing carpeting in your house, covering upholstered furniture with plastic, and cleaning heating ducts. If you are allergic to pet dander, you may need to keep your pet out of your house or at least out of your bedroom. Mold allergies are treated by reducing the humidity in your house.

Allergy shots:

Regular allergy shots (desensitization) can help prevent the symptoms of rhinitis from occurring. These shots work by giving very small injections of the same allergen that you are sensitive to. Over time, the immune system becomes adjusted to these exposures and no longer reacts when you are exposed to the allergen.