Understanding Allergy and Hay Fever Medications (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
- What are allergies?
- What causes allergies?
- What are the risks of allergies?
- What medical treatments are used for allergies and hay fever?
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Anticholinergic nasal sprays
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays
- Antiallergy eye drops
- Leukotriene inhibitors
- Mast cell inhibitors
- For More Information
- Web Links
- Synonyms and Keywords
- Authors and Editors
What causes allergies?
Many substances in the environment can become allergens, but only in genetically susceptible persons. Dust mites, animal hair or danders, pollens, medications, foods, and insect venoms are examples of allergens. Approximately 20% of the US population is potentially allergic.
Reactions may be in the nose (hay fever), eyes (conjunctivitis), chest (asthma), or it can be systemic (anaphylaxis), meaning it can involve the entire body.
Next: What are the risks of allergies? »
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