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The goal of treating allergic rhinitis is to reduce allergy symptoms caused by the inflammation of affected tissues.
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The best "treatment" is to avoid what causes the allergic symptoms in the first place. (See Prevention, below.) It may be impossible to completely avoid all allergens to which you are sensitive, but you can often take steps to reduce exposure.
Medication options include the following:
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Short-acting antihistamines, which are generally over-the-counter (non-prescription), often relieve mild to moderate symptoms but can cause drowsiness. A pediatrician should be consulting before using these medicines in children as they may affect learning. One formerly prescription medication, loratadine (Claritin), is now available over the counter. It does NOT tend to cause drowsiness or affect learning in children.
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Longer-acting antihistamines cause less drowsiness and can be equally effective, and usually do not interfere with learning. These medications, which require a prescription, include fexofenadine (Allegra), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and desloratadine (Clarinex).
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Nasal corticosteroid sprays are very effective and safe for people with symptoms not relieved by antihistamines alone. These prescription medications include fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), and triamcinolone (Nasacort).
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Decongestants may also be helpful in reducing symptoms such as nasal congestion, but should not be used for long periods.
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Cromolyn sodium is available as a nasal spray (Nasalcrom) for treating hay fever. Eye drop versions of cromolyn sodium and antihistamines are available for itchy or bloodshot eyes.
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Leukotriene Inhibitors -- montelukast (Singulair) is a prescription medicine approved to help control asthma and to help relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergies.
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