Whether you’re allergic to dust mites, tree pollen, or animal dander, you can find relief for your nasal allergy symptoms. The sooner you take action to curb these 5 symptoms, the better you’ll feel.
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1. Runny or Stuffy Nose
It's one of the most common symptoms.
First, you need to know what your triggers are, so you can avoid them. A board-certified allergist (a doctor who specializes in treating allergies) can help you identify them.
Although it can be hard to completely avoid some triggers, you may be able to cut down on how often you’re around them. For example, if pollen is a trigger, stay inside when pollen counts are high. If dogs or cats make you sniffle, wash your hands and change your clothes after playing with them.
You may want to try nasal irrigation using a Neti pot or a nasal rinse.
Over-the-counter nasal steroids, antihistamines, decongestants, and cromolyn sodium nasal sprays can all help control nasal allergy symptoms. Don’t use decongestant nasal sprays for more than 3 days at a time. Be sure to read and follow the directions on the label for any over-the-counter medicine.
Your doctor may prescribe other treatments if these remedies don’t help. It’s time to see your doctor if your symptoms don’t get better within 7 days or get worse after about 5 days.
2. Sinus Pressure
Your sinuses are small cavities behind your forehead, cheeks, and eyes. If mucus builds up in these areas because of allergies, you may feel pressure or pain.
You can try a few things to help ease sinus congestion. Apply a moist, warm cloth to your face, or inhale steam a few times each day. You can also try a saline nasal spray.
Call your doctor if you feel sinus pain and pressure for more than a week.
3. Sneezing
If you can’t avoid the allergen that makes you sneeze, or if doing so doesn’t help, try an over-the-counter antihistamine.
Read and follow the directions on the label for any over-the-counter medicine. If you still need more relief, your doctor may prescribe a nasal steroid spray.