How to Use Antihistamines to Treat Dander Allergies

Dander causes allergies in roughly 15 percent of the population. Sniffling, sneezing, coughing and red, itchy eyes are just a few of the symptoms of dander allergies. Whether you have mild or severe allergies, it's possible to treat them with antihistamines. Antihistamines work by blocking the histamine receptors from the allergens, reducing the symptoms and making you more comfortable.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Receive a battery of tests prior to taking antihistamines to treat your dander allergies. With tests ranging from blood tests to scratch tests, you and your doctor can determine just how susceptible you are to dander, and whether or not you can treat your allergies with over-the-counter remedies or whether you need to use a more powerful prescription medication.
2. Head to the pharmacy and buy the antihistamines that your doctor recommended you use. You can also head to a warehouse store and buy many antihistamines in bulk, which is good if you need to treat allergies long term and want to save money.
3. Follow the directions for your antihistamines carefully. Some antihistamines are effective for up to 24 hours, while others will need to be taken every 6 to 12 hours. Since the directions vary so widely, you'll want to verify them each time you open a new pack of antihistamines.
4. Work out a schedule for taking your antihistamines that's easy to remember. For example, you might want to make taking your antihistamine the first thing you do in the morning, or with breakfast (some prescription medications should be taken with food anyway). This way, it becomes habit for you to use your antihistamines.
5. Test new antihistamines on days when you don't have to go to work or leave the house. This gives you a safe way to test the reaction your body might exhibit when taking new medications. It's also a good idea to take them for the first time during the day, as opposed to at night, so you don't get "false drowsiness."

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a box of antihistamines with you to use wherever you go. Antihistamines are the most effective when you use them continuously throughout an allergy season (or as part of a prescription plan).
• If your allergies are more severe, causing vomiting, dizziness, nausea or diarrhea, then you need to seek immediate medical attention. Taking antihistamines during a severe allergic reaction is generally ineffective.
• Be aware that many antihistamines, particularly over-the-counter antihistamines, can cause marked drowsiness. Don't drive or operate machinery until you know what kind of side effects antihistamines manifest when you take them.