These products do contain steroids, but nasal sprays are not dangerous like steroids that are injected or taken in pill form. Experts caution that no one therapy is best for all allergy sufferers. For nasal sprays to be effective, however, patients must use them regularly, even without symptoms. If this becomes a problem, Dr. Nelson recommends taking antihistamines. In addition, prescription antihistamines like Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec offer symptom relief with far less drowsiness, and can be taken once a day.
Decongestants are another option, and finally, when all else fails, there are allergy shots.
Where to Hide There are plenty of things you can do to protect yourself from coming into contact with allergy triggers. If they know that a high exposure to something makes them sick, then it's best to avoid it. Allergy-prone runners, for instance, may want to hold off on afternoon jogs, because pollen counts are usually then at their highest. Keep windows closed to prevent pollens and molds from drifting into your house. Try to stay indoors when the pollen count or humidity is high, and on windy days, when pollen is easily spread.