The decline in breast feeding and the increase in smoking in developed countries, say some scientists, has also put our children at risk. But some researchers believe this kind of cleanliness may be throwing our immune systems into overdrive, making us unable to handle even unthreatening invaders. An allergy occurs when the body sees a harmless substance, such as pollen or cat dander, as a threat. In response, the immune system builds antibodies to fight off the threatening substance, resulting in the sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, hives and other symptoms associated with allergies. Most allergy medications are antihistamines that concentrate on eliminating the symptoms.
Antihistamines provide varying degrees of relief and are available in eyedrops and oral formulas.
Many patients suffering from congestion find antihistamines more effective in combination with a corticosteroid nose spray such as Flonase. Prescription antihistamines such as Claritin and Allegra cause less drowsiness, but many patients are deterred by the cost. The FDA is currently considering making these medications available over the counter. Instead of medicating the symptoms, some allergy sufferers try to eliminate the allergy itself through immunotherapy. Through a series of vaccinations, the patient is slowly exposed and desensitized to the allergen.