Guest Post: Jacob Maslow of AllergyBeGone.com
If you go to any drug store you’ll see an isle designated to over-the-counter allergy relief medications. But, when do you decide it’s time for a stronger prescription drug to tackle those wicked allergy symptoms?
This will obviously be decided when your symptoms are not controlled by the over-the-counter allergy relief medications such as Zyrtec. At this point you need to do a little investigating . . . get to the bottom of you allergy problems.
The first step is to determine if your allergies are seasonal, indoor, or food allergy. The only way to accurately find the answer to this is to see an allergist and get tested.
Once your doctor gets the results of testing, he will most likely advise you as to which prescription medication you should try. This will also depend on your allergy symptoms. Do you sneeze? Do you have a runny nose? Do you have a cough and congestion? Are your eyes dry and itchy? Are you getting rashes? Your doctor will take all your symptoms and test results into consideration before prescribing an allergy medication.
Two Types of Allergy Relief Prescription Medications
There are a number of prescription allergy relief medications on the market. Antihistamines, such as Clainex, Xyzal, and Allegra, work by blocking your raised level of histamine which is a result of your body reacting to an allergen. This particular type of medicine will also help dry up runny noises and congestion.
There are also decongestants that your doctor may prescribe, such as Allegra-D, Claritin-D, and Semprex. Decongestants relieve congestion. They are often prescribed in conjunction with antihistamines for dealing with allergy symptoms. This type of medication is available in nasal spray, eye drop, liquid, or pill form.
Are There Possible Side-Effects to Prescription Allergy Relief 
Medication?
The answer here is YES. As with any medication, there can be side-effects. Over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines can cause drowsiness. The good news is that there are non-sedating medications that your doctor can prescribe.
Decongestants may raise blood pressure. They may also cause insomnia, irritability and even restrict urinary flow.
Because of these possible side effects, it is very important for you to discuss all your health related issues or problems with you doctor before being prescribed a medication. You may also discuss the differences between certain allergy medications with your pharmacist.
