Environmental allergies come in many forms, but all of them can significantly impact patients’ ability to function and enjoy routine activities. Most environmental allergies are diagnosed during childhood, so parents ready to consider Environmental Allergy Treatment in Columbus MS would do well to read this article. Below are a few of the most common treatment options.
Antihistamine Drugs
Antihistamines work by blocking the action of histamine, which dampens the inflammatory response. They are primarily used for mild allergic rhinitis such as hay fever. Antihistamines have a reputation for making patients drowsy, but today’s drugs are much less likely to cause drowsiness than their forebears.
Nasal Decongestants
Often used in conjunction with antihistamines, nasal decongestants work by shrinking blood vessels to reduce congestion. While they are not intended to actively treat allergies, they can significantly improve patients’ lives by reducing their symptoms.
Therapeutic Bronchodilators
Bronchodilators come in several different classes, all of which are used to treat respiratory diseases. They can help patients with asthma by opening up constricted airways.
Allergy Shots
Known medically as immunotherapy, allergy shots work by desensitizing the patient to allergens over time. They expose patients with allergic rhinitis, asthma, conjunctivitis, and insect venom allergies to their triggering allergen a little bit at a time, slowly increasing the exposure over the course of the treatment.
Monoclonal Anti-lgE Antibodies
Omalizumab is a monoclonal anti-lgE antibody that is used to treat patients with persistent allergic asthma. This relatively new treatment works by reducing the amount of lgE available in the patient’s body to attach to inhaled allergens.
Take Action Now
Most environmental allergies can be either treated or controlled using well-established therapies and medications. The first step toward helping a child who is suffering from allergies to control his or her symptoms is to make an appointment with an allergist to discuss Environmental Allergy Treatment in Columbus MS.
As with most fields of medicine, the care of children’s allergies is best left to a dedicated pediatrician. Medical professionals who are used to treating children are better able to provide a warm and welcoming environment, reducing stress for the entire family. Learn more about us today or call to schedule an appointment for allergy testing.
