how long to feel better after starting allergy medicine

[nana68]

I just started taking 24 hr. clairitn today.I went to my doctor and he did some allergy testing and I am allergic to grass and dust.Around this time every year I get a week of vertigo,sore throat and chest heaviness but I have no wheezing right now.I also get this sick taste on my tounge and throat.the itchy eyes are all gone,no more sneezing but I still have the sick taste and heaviness.I have had 24 hr. heart testing so its not that,I think its just the allergies.how long can I expect it to taketil my throat ,chest and tounge mellow out?

[bsmsl]

Hello,

I would recommend Zyrtec over Claritin.   It works better for most of the people I know.  

In addition to the suggestions Dr. Kaur made, you may also consider showering before going to bed so that you are not sleeping with the pollen you collected in your hair all night (and it doesn't get in your pillow for another night) and keeping all windows and doors closed as much as possible.

Let us know how you are doing.
God bless.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Your symptoms are definitely suggestive of allergies. It will take a few days for the symptoms to settle down even after anti allergy medicines, so continue taking the antiallergy medications. The best way is to reduce exposure to the allergen. To reduce dust mites in your home, remove drapes, feather pillows, upholstered furniture, non-washable comforters and soft toys. Replace carpets with linoleum or wood. Vacuum soft furniture and curtains as well as floor Wash carpets and upholstery with special cleaners, such as benzyl benzoate or tannic acid spray. Wash all bedding in hot water (hotter than 130°F) every 7 to 10 days. Don't use mattress pads. Cover mattress and pillows with plastic covers. Lower the humidity in your home.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. Treatment can be started only when the diagnosis is confirmed. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.