Yahoo News It's pollen season again - here's what you need to know about antihistamines
The clocks have gone forward in the UK, which means that we’re drawing ever closer to the welcome warmth of British Summer Time.
But it also means the arrival of high pollen counts in the UK’s air – which marks the beginning of an annual battle for hay fever sufferers across the country.
One of the main ways to keep the condition under check is to take antihistamines, although it’s worth being aware of what you can take, how often, and the potential side effects.
Here’s everything you need to know.
How many types of antihistamine are there?
There’s usually two groups. Older antihistamines are often capable of making you feel drowsy – such as chlorphenamine, hydroxyzine and promethazine.
You’re advised to avoid driving or strenuous activity once you’ve taken these.
In contrast, newer antihistamines are less likely to make you feel drowsy – such as cetirizine, loratadine and fexofenadine.
They often come in the form of tables, capsules, syrups, creams, liquid, lotion, gels, eye drops and nasal spray.
How do I take it?
This, according to NHS England, is the most effective strategy.
how to take it – including whether it needs to be taken with water or food, or how to use it correctly (if eye drops or a nasal spray)
how much to take (the dose) – this can vary depending on things such as your age and weight
when to take it – including how many times a day you can take it and when to take it (older types should be taken before bedtime)
how long to take it for – some types can be used for a long time, but some are only recommended for a few days
what to do if you miss a dose or take too much (overdose)
Which is the most effective?
In a nutshell, it seems that the answer is entirely subjective. What might work for you may not necessarily prove effective for someone else.
It’s worth trying more than one before settling on the antihistamine that tackles your hayfever most efficiently.
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What are the side effects?
sleepiness and reduced co-ordination, reaction speed and judgement – don’t drive or use machinery.
dry mouth
blurred vision
difficulty emptying your bladder
Can I take alcohol with them?
It’s worth consulting a pharmacist or your GP before taking antihistamines if you are already taking other medicines.
There may be a risk that the medicines could affect each other, which could stop either from working properly or potentially increase the risk of side effects.
