Should i take allergy medicine at night

If you're not sure how to take your medicine, ask a pharmacist. Check the leaflet that comes with your medicine for a full list of possible side effects and advice about when to get medical help. If you think your medicine has caused an unwanted side effect, you can report it through the Yellow Card Scheme. Speak to a pharmacist or GP before taking antihistamines if you're already taking other medicines. There may be a risk the medicines do not mix, which could stop either from working properly or increase the risk of side effects.

Examples of medicines that could cause problems if taken with antihistamines include some types of:. Try not to drink alcohol while taking an antihistamine, particularly if it's a type that makes you drowsy, as it can increase the chances of it making you feel sleepy.

Food and other drinks do not affect most antihistamines, but check the leaflet that comes with your medicine to make sure. Some antihistamines may not be suitable in these cases. A pharmacist or doctor can recommend one that's best for you. Always read the leaflet that comes with your medicine to check it's safe for you before taking it or giving it to your child. Antihistamines block the effects of a substance called histamine in your body. Your official excuse to add "OOD" ahem, out of doors to your cal.

Become an Insider. Facebook Pinterest Twitter Youtube Instagram. Related Stories. Tags: Healthy Body. Inflammation occurs when you become exposed to an allergen like pollen, mold spores, or pet dander, among others. Your allergic reaction may vary, but allergy symptoms often mimic cold symptoms. You may experience nasal congestion, sinus pain, a runny nose or itchy nose, sore throat, itchy eyes or watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, and fatigue.

Each of these symptoms is unpleasant during the day. Especially when they keep you and your bed partner awake which further compounds the foggy-heading exhaustion you feel during the day when allergies strike. Alleviating allergy symptoms is even more important if you already struggle with a sleep disorder like insomnia, or count yourself among one of the millions of sleep deprived Americans.

If you have diagnosed sleep disordered breathing sleep apnea , you may even have trouble using your CPAP. If you have sleep apnea but are undiagnosed, your already fragmented sleep and snoring can get worse. Many allergy sufferers choose to take allergy medicine such as a nasal decongestant or nasal steroid, allergy drops, or a nasal spray to help clear the nasal passage when suffering from respiratory allergies. Never dry your linens outside where pollen can follow them into your bed.

While it may be tempting on sleepless nights to use a prescription or over-the-counter sleep aid, Dr. Hong never recommends their use, especially for her patients with allergies. Allergy sufferers can find relief — and more restful sleep — by addressing allergies from different angles: limiting allergen exposure, using the right medication and seeing your doctor if symptoms persist.

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