Treatment Methods for Allergy Symptoms

NASAL  SALINE  IRRIGATIONS
Nasal saline irrigations can be used daily and after allergen exposures.  Nasal saline is not a medication and can be purchased at local pharmacies or retail stores.  Some examples of nasal saline are AYR nasal spray, NeilMed Sinus Rinse, Simply Saline, Ocean, or Little noses.  Nasal saline can also be made from ingredients found in most kitchens. 

The home saline recipe is:
1 quart of warm distilled water
2 to 3 heaping teaspoons of canning, pickling, or sea salt. (Do not use table salt)
1 teaspoon of baking soda.

AVOIDANCE  AND  ENVIRONMENTAL  CONTROL
Allergy testing can help in the identification of possible inhalant or food allergens, so they can be avoided.   However, avoidance and elimination of allergens from an individual’s environment seems simple, but can be difficult.  For additional information on decreasing exposure to inhalant allergens see our Environmental Allergen Control link.  A food diary is a useful means of identifying suspected food allergens  (See Allergy Forms link to obtain a two week allergy diary).  Aggressive label reading is required when food allergens are identified. 

MEDICATION MANAGEMENT
Symptoms may be treated with nasal sprays, antihistamines, decongestants, or leukotriene inhibitors.  Medication management may improve symptoms, but will not resolve the cause.

 

IMMUNOTHERAPY
The goal of immunotherapy is to treat the root cause of the allergy, by continually stimulating the immune system with specific patient allergens.  This approach offers the highest probability of providing long-term relief of allergy symptoms.  Immunotherapy can be administered through injections or sublingually (drops under the tongue).