A weekly column looking at common treatments.
Conventional drugs: Antihistamines
What is it? Anti-histamine medication counters the effects of histamine, one of the chemicals released in response to an allergic reaction in the body.
What's it good for? Antihistamines relieve allergy-related symptoms. They are commonly used in the prevention of hay-fever and are prescribed to relieve itching, swelling and redness caused by an allergic skin reaction or insect stings. They are also found in cough and cold preparations when their side-effect of drying mucous secretions and suppressing cough is helpful. Antihistamines also work on the area of the brain that controls nausea and vomiting and can be useful in controlling these symptoms.
How does it work? Antihistamines block the action of histamine on receptors in the body called H1 receptors. These are found in various sites of the body, including the small blood vessels in the skin, nose and eyes.
Any contraindications? Driving or operating machinery may be dangerous due to the side-effects of some antihistamine medication. They also increase the sedative effects of alcohol, anti-anxiety drugs, opioid-based analgesics and sleeping tablets. In some children, they can cause agitation and hyperactivity. Abnormal heart rhythm can occur with high doses or when taken in conjunction with certain antifungal or antibiotic drugs. Those with liver disease or electrolyte disturbances may develop heart rhythm problems with antihistamine use. Interaction with medication for glaucoma or prostate problems can occur.
Possible side-effects? Older varieties of antihistamines can cause drowsiness and can affect coordination. Care is therefore needed with driving or the operation of machinery. Some of the newer antihistamines have no sedative effects. Other possible side-effects include dry mouth, blurred vision and difficulty passing urine. Most side-effects diminish with prolonged use.
Dr Muiris Houston
Alternative Remedy: Tea Tree Essential Oil
What is it? The tea tree is a shrub with needle-like leaves and heads of stalkless yellow or purple flowers. The essential oil is extracted by steam or water distillation from the leaves and twigs of the tea tree.
How does it work? Tea tree essential oil has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and immunostimulant properties whose actions help to heal infections of the skin, respiratory system, urinary and reproductive systems.
What is it good for? Tea tree essential oil is used to treat abscesses, acne, athlete's foot, blisters, burns, cold sores and other skin rashes. It is considered to be one of the best overall disinfectants for the skin. It can also be used in the treatment of viral infections such as flus and bacterial infections such as coughs and sinusitis, bronchitis and other respiratory conditions. Eight to 10 drops of tea tree essential oil added to a shallow bath of water is one form of treatment for thrush or cystitis. Strongly diluted in a mouthwash, it can also be used for halitosis (bad breath).
Are their any contraindications or drawbacks? When used with small children and during pregnancy, essential oils should be used in half the suggested amounts. Tea tree is one of the few essential oils that can be applied neat to the skin. However, before applying any new essential oil to the skin, you should do a patch test. Put a few drops on the back of your wrist, cover with a plaster and leave for one hour. If irritation or redness occurs, bathe with cold water and reduce the recommended concentration or discontinue use. It can, however, still cause skin irritation to those with very sensitive skin.
Are there any side-effects? No adverse side-effects apart from skin reactions have been documented.
Sylvia Thompson