How do antihistamines work?
’Tis the season for sneezes and sniffles and a whole lot of “atchoo!”
Bye, winter! But hello, allergy season.
Not to worry, we’ve got the lowdown on everything you need to know about antihistamines. Antihistamines get their name very literally – they stop histamines in their tracks.
First, what are allergies?
Imagine allergies as little invaders, tiny little invaders to be sure, but annoying nonetheless! When your body perceives a food or environmental trigger as a danger, your immune system goes into overdrive to attack the invader and send it packing. Problem is, the allergens (the invaders) can inflame your skin, and trigger your digestive system, sinuses and airways. Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, itchy skin, runny/stuffy nose and watery or red eyes.
Types of allergies include food allergies, seasonal allergies, mould allergies, pet allergies and pollen allergies.
Hello, antihistamines
Enter antihistamines. These handy helpers physically block H1 receptors (the substances triggering the allergic reactions). Antihistamines are strong and robust and work to treat allergy symptoms, and even some cold and flu symptoms and motion sickness.
The good news is that antihistamines are usually quick and effective, getting to work within 30 minutes to an hour after being taken. If your allergies are particularly irksome and troubling, your doctor may prescribe that you take antihistamines every day during allergy season. Remember that some antihistamines can make you drowsy, so you should take them before bedtime. Bonus: the antihistamine will already be in your system when and if you come into contact with allergens. Many antihistamines have a 24-hour efficacy period.
Good to know
- Antihistamines cannot cure your allergies – they simply help you find relief from the irritating symptoms.
- Antihistamines are NOT for asthma, insomnia or eczema.
- Most antihistamines are safe to use when you’re breastfeeding or pregnant.
Natural allergy fighters
Are there things you can do to fight off allergies naturally? Try these home remedies for light relief.
- A daily cup of green tea is filled with healthy antioxidants and could help prevent congestion.
- Ask your pharmacist about liquorice root, which has some benefits in terms of loosening mucous and helping you breathe easier.
- Use this one with caution – spicy foods are not for the faint of heart but could help clear your nasal passages. If you can’t stomach anything more than mild though, steer clear!
- With food allergies, it is always worth keeping a food diary so you can easily track the culprits. Most food allergy baddies stem from dairy, wheat or nuts.
- Have you heard of a Neti pot? This little trick helps to flush out the pollen and dust from your nose. Check at your pharmacy for this helper and use it to rinse out your nostrils every day.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.