If you suffer from pollen allergy symptoms, chances are you may be taking medication prescribed by your doctor to help prevent or treat any negative reactions to this common seasonal allergen. Many specialists recommend pills that contain antihistamines, which have been shown to help alleviate symptoms associated with hay fever, food allergies and other similar afflictions.
With so many Americans taking these medications during this particularly severe spring and summer allergy season, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a consumer update on May 29 reminding people to be cautious of certain side effects of the drugs.
According to the source, antihistamines may leave individuals feeling drowsy and unfocused, which can be dangerous if the people taking them don't carefully read the labels and follow all associated instructions.
"Any of these reactions can negatively interfere with driving or operating heavy machinery," Dr. Jane Filie, who works in the FDA's Division of Nonprescription Regulation Development, said in the consumer update. Dr. Filie added that even if an antihistamine doesn't cause an individual to feel drowsy, it can still lead to similar side effects such as haziness, mild confusion and slower reaction times.
In order to ensure safety while taking antihistamines, the source states that it's important for people to be wary of exceeding prescribed dosages, avoid drinking alcohol and exercise caution while operating a vehicle or heavy machinery.
While medications can certainly help with pollen allergy symptoms, individuals looking for additional ways to combat seasonal allergies should consider investing in Allergy Be Gone products such as the Honeywell HFD-112 QuietClean Tower Air Purifier, which captures common irritants to ensure that you aren't breathing them in.
