Chronic allergies have woven themselves into the everyday fabric of life for an increasing number of people.
Not restricted to seasonal discomfort, their presence is a year-round reality, an inescapable truth that punctuates every morning and night.
Daily allergy medications, consequently, have become a routine much like brushing teeth or having breakfast.
Living Side by Side with Allergies
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reveals that more than 50 million Americans struggle with various types of allergies each year. Allergies rank as the 6th leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S, with an annual cost in excess of $18 billion.
Antihistamines: An Everyday Ally
In this day-to-day dance with allergies, antihistamines step in as an ally, helping mitigate symptoms like sneezing, itching, runny nose, and hives. As the most frequently used treatment for allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria, antihistamines have claimed a spot in many households’ daily routines.
But Is It Safe To Take Antihistamines Every Day?
First-generation antihistamines, including diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and hydroxyzine, are effective but come with an array of side effects, such as sedation, impaired cognitive function, poor sleep quality, dry mouth, dizziness, and orthostatic hypotension.
More alarmingly, these drugs have been associated with instances of accidental and intentional overdoses, and even sudden cardiac death.
A Friendlier Alternative: Newer Generation Antihistamines
Recognizing the need for safer, yet equally potent alternatives, second- and third-generation antihistamines were developed. These modern versions offer fewer side effects while continuing to provide strong relief against allergies.
According to a position statement by the Canadian Society of Allergy Clinical Immunology (CSACI), numerous high-quality trials have demonstrated that newer generation antihistamines have superior safety profiles compared to the older first-generation ones.
Should You Revisit Your Allergy Medication?
Despite the strong case for newer generation antihistamines, first-generation drugs persist in common usage, largely because of their over-the-counter availability and their long-standing tenure in allergy treatment. However, in light of recent insights, it may be prudent to reevaluate your daily allergy medication.
If you or a loved one depend on daily allergy medication, a conversation with your healthcare provider to review your choice of antihistamines might be worthwhile. Given the potential side effects of first-generation antihistamines, switching to newer versions could offer a safer and still effective alternative.
Understanding Your Options
Navigating chronic allergies can be challenging, and making informed decisions about your treatment can seem overwhelming. That’s why it’s vital to stay updated with the latest information and understand the options at your disposal. The continuous advancement of medicine offers better and safer treatments—we simply need to keep ourselves informed and adapt accordingly.
