BellaOnline Forums Health and Fitness Allergies & Colds Ingredients in allergy medications

I just discovered that my allergy medication had food dyes in it. The medication never seemed to do the trick. In fact I felt pretty awful. I have always been sensitive to dyes in foods. I decided to switch to something else. I read the labels very carefully which can be a formidable task. I think I found one that will work for me. When you have allergies, it's probably a good idea to read the labels carefully of everything you ingest.

I became allergic to all sorts of allergy medications, especially anything with sudafed-like ingredients. I used to take sudafed for allergies and just suddenly had adverse reactions to it. I quit taking any form of allergy or cold medications about 8 years ago and I couldn't believe it. My allergies actually got better!

Now I use sinus irrigation with normal saline and I take quercetin. As I have had arthritis type symptoms I also take supplements for anti-inflammatory, which in turn also helps my allergies.

I rarely ever get a cold but if I do, I just let it run its course with no medications. I do still use the sinus irrigation, and immune boosting supplements, plus lots and lots of water. My rare colds only last about 1-2 days with this method. I really think that medications prolong a cold.

Joanj,

no antihistamine worked for you?

Many allergy/cold medications have similar ingredients. If you are allergic to one of their common ingredients, then you probably are wise to eliminate them all and look for alternative methods of controlling your allergies. I too find I am better when I don't take any of the medications and rely on the saline nasal washes.

Practically every antihistamine I've used has worked for me. Some were better than others but some caused new problems because they contained ingredients I am sensitive to. You just need to be aware of what ingredients may trigger other problems for you. For instance, if you are allergic to corn, be aware that many contain corn starch as an inactive ingredient. Some contain food dyes and artificial sweeteners. Avoid those products if you are sensitive. I hope that helps.

I was just listening to an Andrew Weil audio book and he said to try stinging nettle for allergies and it will work as well as any OTC med. You just can't take it continually but only during allergy season for instance.