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Managing allergic rhinitis requires realistic expectations and a strategic approach to medication. Though no treatment will completely eliminate symptoms, the right combination of therapies can significantly reduce discomfort and improve quality of life during allergy season.

• Nasal corticosteroid sprays are first-line treatments that reduce inflammation in nasal passages
• Proper technique matters: point spray toward outside of nostril and sniff gently "like smelling a flower"
• Non-sedating antihistamines (Zyrtec, Claritin, Allegra) relieve itching, sneezing, and runny nose without drowsiness
• Nasal antihistamine sprays provide targeted relief and can start working within minutes
• Oral decongestants raise concerns about blood pressure and heart rate increases
• Avoid nasal decongestant sprays (like Afrin) beyond 2-3 days to prevent rebound congestion
• Combination therapies often work better than single medications
• Consider allergen immunotherapy when standard treatments don't provide adequate relief

Thank you for coming back to another episode of Your Checkup. Hopefully you were able to learn something for yourself, a loved one, or an allergic neighbor. Please check out our website, find us on Instagram, send us an email at yourcheckuppod@gmail.com and, most importantly, stay healthy my friends, until next time.

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Production and Content: Edward Delesky, MD & Nicole Aruffo, RN
Artwork: Olivia Pawlowski