terrible congestion with allergies

[hydralika]

I tried drixine, vicks, it does n't work. also decongestants. Currently taking macrol doctor's advice. what to do? do i take zyrtec? or another stronger allergy pill?

[Paderla Anitha, DNB]

Hello and hope you are doing well.

Looks like there is a super added infection, hence the antibiotics. Ensure to take the required dosage for the required number of days. In allergic rhinitis the symptoms are usually triggered by an allergen. These allergens, when exposed to initiate immune mediated reactions which will result in the symptoms you experience. The allergic history usually runs in families.

So, the problem can be tackled at three levels.

At the allergen level, where you can consult an allergy specialist, who after doing some skin tests, will be able to specify some allergens. You can either avoid exposure to these allergens or desensitize yourself.

The second level is prevention of the attacks. For this, there are steroidal sprays for allergic rhinitis. The steroid content is very minimal in both, sprays and inhalers and long-term use will prevent attacks.

When you have an attack, you can use an antihistamine (like Cetzine) for allergic rhinitis. For further relief from your symptoms you could do steam inhalations. Please ensure to do this prior to your meals.  

Hope this helped and do keep us posted.

[ChitChatNine]

If nothing natural works or otc meds, you may want to ask your Dr about Singulair or using a steroid nasal spray for awhile .. there are some that are more mild than others and approved for use in kids .. so maybe something like that is a thought.

Keep us posted -- so sorry this is going on.  You think weeds maybe?

C~

[jellokelli]

You could try those things. Just remember though that it does take your body anywhere from 2-3 days to a couple of weeks to get used to a new medication. You have to give it time to work so you really shouldn't keep changing after a day or so unless you end up having an allergic reaction to it.

A more at home remedy is to make sure your windows are closed, wipe down flat areas of dust...make sure you wear a mask during this if you have real bad allergies, also taking a hot shower can help open up the airways.

Good luck to you.