Allergy is an exaggerated inflammatory response to a foreign substance which, in the case of a stuffy nose, is usually a pollen, mold, animal dander, or some element in house dust. Foods sometime play a role. Molds may cause symptoms year-round. Ideally the best treatment is avoidance of these substances, but that is impractical in most cases. In the allergic patient, the release of histamine and similar substances results in congestion and excess production of watery nasal mucus.
Antihistamines help relieve the sneezing and runny nose of allergy.
Many antihistamines are now available without a prescription. Newer, non-sedating antihistamines, which require a prescription, include Seldane, Hismanal and Claritin. Decongestants shrink congested nasal tissues. Combinations of antihistamines with decongestants are also available. All these preparations have potential side effects, and patients must heed the warnings of the package or prescription insert.