When sneezing, a blocked nose or itching starts, most people reach for a quick fix: an anti-allergy tablet from the medical store, a nasal spray that opens the nose instantly, or an “allergy injection” that gives relief for weeks. These may help for a while, but the allergy keeps coming back, and some of these quick fixes can cause real harm. In this video, Dr. Dipak Viradia, Chest Physician & Intensivist, explains why proper treatment is needed instead.

Common quick fixes and their risks:

• Decongestant nasal sprays (that open a blocked nose within minutes): when used for more than a few days, they can cause rebound blockage, where the nose becomes even more blocked, leading to dependence on the spray.
• “Allergy injections” for quick relief: these are often long-acting steroid injections. Repeated use can raise blood sugar and blood pressure, weaken bones and immunity, and cause weight gain.
• Steroid tablets taken on your own: they give fast relief but carry similar side effects with repeated use.
• Older anti-allergy tablets: some cause drowsiness, which can be unsafe while driving or working with machines.
• Temporary relief only: none of these treat the cause. Meanwhile, untreated allergy can progress to asthma, sinus infections and disturbed sleep.

What proper allergy treatment includes:

1. Correct diagnosis: confirming it is allergy and identifying triggers through history and allergy testing.
2. Trigger avoidance: practical changes at home and work to reduce exposure.
3. The right regular medicines: such as steroid nasal sprays, which act locally in the nose in very small doses and are safe for long-term use when prescribed, along with non-drowsy antihistamines.
4. Checking the lungs: a lung function test if there is cough, wheezing or breathlessness, with inhalers if asthma is present.
5. Allergen immunotherapy: in selected patients, to reduce sensitivity over time.

With the right treatment, most people with allergy can control their symptoms well and avoid repeated flare-ups.

Dr. Dipak Viradia
Chest Physician & Intensivist | Interventional Pulmonologist & ECMO Specialist
Rudrax Chest Clinic, 301, Solaris Royce, Opp. Old RTO, Athwagate, Ring Road, Surat – 395001
Appointment: +91 75676 19985
Website: www.drdipakviradia.com