Limit Exposure

• Limiting your exposure to allergens is a very efficient way of treating allergic rhinitis. Before heading outdoors, be sure to check online pollen forecasts to find out if counts are high in your area. If they are, try to schedule activities for indoors and limit time outdoors. For indoor allergies like pet dander and pollens, be sure to use HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters on vacuums, air purifiers and air conditioners. This powerful filter can remove many micro-sized allergens that are floating around the home. For dust mites, cover your mattress and pillows with special encasings that can create a barrier between you and the mites. For those with severe allergies, consider wearing a mask while cleaning or for outdoor use to filter out potential allergens.
  
  

Medications

• Taking the right medications is an effective way to treat your allergic rhinitis. Antihistamines and decongestants are two of the most widely used types of fast-acting medications. Antihistamines counter histamine, which creates inflammation in your body during an allergic reaction. Typically, these are taken orally to help reduce that inflammation. Decongestants combat excessive congestion, which tends to occur in the nose. Nasal sprays are generally used to help decrease this. Depending on the severity of your allergic rhinitis, both medications are available over the counter or by prescription. Either of these should be taken at the first sign of any symptoms as they can take up to 30 minutes before any relief is felt.
  
  In more severe cases of allergic rhinitis, your doctor may prescribe preventive medications. Corticosteroids and leukotriene blockers are two powerful anti-inflammatory medications. A nasal corticosteroid can effectively reduce inflammation in the nose and consequently decrease the number of allergic responses. A leukotriene blocker, like Singulair, is a medication that is taken orally to block inflammation created by leukotrienes (molecules in the body). For maximum effect, both of these medications should be taken daily for at least several weeks before any relief is felt.
  
  Be sure to speak to your doctor before starting any medication, and always report any potential side effects.
  
  

Immunotherapy

• If your allergic rhinitis symptoms are due to pet dander, pollens or dust mites, then you may be a good candidate for immunotherapy. This series of shots, which is administered by an allergist, contains small doses of your specific allergens. Over time, the dose is increased while your body builds immunity. This desensitization process has the potential to completely eliminate allergies but does have its downside. Weekly visits to the allergist may take several years before any relief is felt. See your allergist to find out if immunotherapy is a good option for you.