Anyone who suffers from an allergy knows how miserable it is to deal with itchy, watering eyes, sneezing and the itching from rash when an allergic reaction occurs. Allergy relief is elusive at times, but with a little know-how and some planning ahead, most people manage to struggle through the allergy season with a minimum of problems. For others whose allergies aren't seasonal and are the result of an allergy to animals or dust, such allergy relief may prove more difficult to treat.

Allergy relief can be found in many different shapes and forms of medications, both those available over the counter at your local drugstore or pharmacy or those that are prescribed by your physician. Some are in pill form, others in liquid, while some allergy relief medications are now available in eye drops or as topical creams. Knowing which one is right for you, and which one will work best, depends on several factors, including what it is you're allergic to. For some, relief can be found in most over the counter antihistamine medications such as Benadryl or Claritin.

Most over the counter antihistamines used in allergy relief prove effective, yet they may make you sleepy. It's very important not to use allergy relief medications while driving if you find that you're sensitive to drowsiness. Some allergy relief brands of antihistamines are now available in non-drowsy formulas, which help immensely for those who work full time. Claritin is one of the newer allergy relief drugs that don't cause drowsiness, as is Allegra.

Other common forms of antihistamine allergy relief can be found in nasal sprays such as Astelin, and even in eye drops such as Emadine and Patanol. These are available through prescription from your doctor and may cause tearing, headache and a mild sensation of burning, so if you wear contact lenses, you may want to opt for wearing eyeglasses during treatment.

Another common type of allergy relief is found in decongestants, which help to relieve the stuffiness and cold-like symptoms that many people suffer after coming into contact with an allergen that sets off their immune system alarms. Most of these types of allergy relief medications are available over the counter. The most common forms, such as Sudafed and Actifed, can be used in conjunction with other medications such as Claritin-D, but always check with your doctor or pharmacist before mixing or combining medications.

Also be aware of their side effects, such as drowsiness or blurred vision. This type of allergy relief is also available as an over the counter nasal spray, such as is found in Afrin and Neo-Synephrine, but doctors advise that you don't use nasal sprays for more than three days because you may end up suffering from severe congestion once you stop.

No matter what kind of allergy relief you're looking for, always remember to follow the instructions found on the medication of your choice. Never double-dose, thinking that more is better, as often just the opposite is true. If regular over the counter medications don't provide you with the allergy relief that you're looking for, it might be time to see your doctor for a stronger, prescribed medication.