ALLERGY MEDICATION
Allergy medications have made significant advances in recent years. The options available today are numerous and varied, so there is no need to suffer through allergy season or let your ocular allergies go untreated. The three primary types of allergy medications include:
- Antihistamines
- Mast-cell stabilizers
- Dual-acting mast-cell stabilizing/antihistamine medications
Antihistamines
An antihistamine allergy medication works by blocking histamine receptors. Histamine is the primary molecule released in the eye during an allergic reaction, and it is capable of causing all the signs and symptoms of eye allergies, particularly itching. There are systemic antihistamines (pills) as well as eye drops, however it is important to remember that no form of medication is as focused on treating the eyes as eye drops are. In addition, the pill form of most antihistamines can contribute to drying of the eyes, making it more difficult to cope with ocular allergy symptoms.Mast-Cell Stabilizers
Mast-cell stabilizers are another allergy medication option. These medications work by preventing mast cells from setting the allergic reaction into action. A mast cell can be thought of as a balloon filled with chemical mediators: when an allergy-causing pollen attacks, the mast cell bursts, releasing numerous chemicals. Among these chemicals are histamine and many others that contribute to itching, redness, and swelling. A mast-cell stabilizer that keeps all of those chemicals from spilling out can be extremely helpful in preventing an allergic reaction from starting. However, it must be used before the allergic reaction occurs.Dual-Acting Mast-Cell Stabilizing/Antihistamine Medications
The merging of these two properties in one therapy is a third option in allergy medication: dual-acting agents are mast-cell stabilizers and antihistamines. These medications work quickly to block histamine that is already affecting the eyes, and simultaneously work to prevent further allergy by stabilizing mast cells. This is thought to contribute to their long duration.Other Allergy Medications
There are some other types of allergy medication such as corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), however these are typically reserved for use in severe forms of eye allergies or those with a serious inflammatory component, or those not responding to the above-mentioned options.In choosing the appropriate ocular allergy medication, it is important to remember that the most effective way to get medication to the eye is by applying it directly in the form of an eye drop. Look for an allergy medication that can treat your eye allergy symptoms. Your healthcare provider can help select the best allergy medication for you.
