Allergies are no fun at all and it can be a challenge to find a treatment that works. There are many over-the-counter medications that promise to ease allergy symptoms, but they can also cause drowsiness and other horrible side effects.
Doctors and scientists are constantly working to develop new allergy treatments and some of the newest ones that are available now are very effective.
Allergy shots are one of the easiest ways to ease your allergy symptoms for long periods of time. Since allergy shots last so long, they are more affordable than other treatments that need to be purchased on a weekly basis or sometimes even more often.
According to Dr. Kusum Sharma, of San Diego’s AKANE Institute for Allergy, Asthma and Sleep Medicine, allergy shots are a proven and FDA-approved “disease modifying” option that can be considered a cure for allergies.
“Allergy shots may actually save you money and improve your quality of life,” she said.
Another new treatment option available to allergy sufferers is the allergy pill. Just this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved two tablets for grass allergies and one for ragweed allergies. The pills are just as effective as the shot and also more convenient for people who are afraid of needles.
This new allergy treatment doesn't have the 'ouch' factor: http://t.co/bfCYQt061w pic.twitter.com/GWq1j59s1f
— Cleveland Clinic (@ClevelandClinic) April 4, 2014
Both allergy shots and pills are covered by most insurance companies and should be taken at least two months before the start of allergy season. This will give the medicine time to be absorbed into the body before it starts fighting the allergens.
Most pills and some versions of the shot are only meant to treat specific allergens and it is important to determine exactly what you are allergic to before you decide which treatment is best for you. A doctor can help you decide and may recommend one of the new treatments or another option.
How do you find relief from your allergies?
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