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Cold & Allergy Relief medications help with all types of symptoms caused by colds and allergies. Although these relief medications are typically not used as a cure, they are a much-needed relief from itchiness, aches and pains, runny nose, or other symptoms that may need remedying. The relief may also help those who are undergoing seasonal allergies or pet allergies that can cause sneezing and congestion.
There are several kinds of sprays, creams, and tablets that are available to administer relief to those experiencing symptoms of a cold or an allergic reaction. As soon as you feel any symptoms, it is good to have the right medication on hand to address them and to stop the uncomfortable feeling.
3 Common Allergy Medicines
Over-the-counter allergy medication has evolved throughout the years and can now treat most mild allergy symptoms. Some medications address a specific symptom while others are a combination of different types to target multiple symptoms and help diminish it all at the same time. Here are 3 common over-the-counter allergy medications:
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Antihistamine
When an allergen enters the body, special cells found in the nose and sinuses release a chemical called histamine. Histamine is what causes the nose to itch and swell and to increase the amount of secreted mucus, which is usually clear and runny. Antihistamine medication, as the name suggests, blocks the histamine from interacting with nasal tissues, which prevents the symptoms.
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Decongestant
Another occurrence when an allergen enters the body is the nasal tissue response of swelling and increased production of fluid and mucus. Because of this, you might feel pressure or fullness in the nose and sinus area, causing you to have trouble breathing. Decongestants are designed to help reduce the swelling in order to improve airflow through the node and the feeling of pressure.
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Topical corticosteroid
Some allergens may be found in what we wear or use to wash, including some dyes or fragrances. This results in itchy or scaly red patches, hives, blisters, or swelling. Corticosteroids for the skin can help control the symptoms presented in that specific area.
How to Choose the Right Colds Relief Medicine
For the most effective and fast-acting relief on colds symptoms, pay attention to the active ingredients listed and know what you're feeling. Each symptom may have a more effective treatment so it is important to recognize your symptoms and address it with the right medication. Here are some ingredients to look out for per symptom:
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Chest congestion
If you’re feeling a buildup in the chest, look for expectorants like Guaifenesin to help loosen the phlegm by thinning out the mucus.
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Cough
A cough can help us express the phlegm out but if it persists and is becoming a nuisance, using a cough suppressant like Dextromethorphan, or DM, may be used to decrease the activity in the brain that causes common coughing.
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Sore Throat
Lozenges or cough drops are often used to lubricate the throat. Although this may be effective in the moment, these may be full of sugar. Benzocaine, which is a numbing agent and suppresses irritation and pain, can help address it without the added sugar present.
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Body aches
Active ingredients that help reduce pain and bring down fever-like Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen will greatly help the fatigue and aches felt when experiencing a cold.
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Runny nose
Just like for allergies, antihistamines can be used to address a runny nose as it works to block the body’s urge to flush out the irritant through nasal mucus.
It’s amazing to know that there are so many relief medications available for people experiencing colds and allergic reactions. The irritating or uncomfortable symptoms don’t have to stay for long as soon as you take the appropriate medicine. Of course, prevention from any allergens or staying away from those who are sick is still the best cold & allergy relief medicine.
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