What is a common treatment for hay fever?

Antihistamines are a common treatment for hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis. When individuals are exposed to allergenic substances such as pollen, pet dander, or mold, the immune system reacts by releasing histamine, a chemical that causes symptoms like sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes. Antihistamines work by blocking the action of histamine at its receptor sites, thereby alleviating these symptoms.

While decongestants are sometimes used to relieve nasal congestion, they do not specifically address the underlying allergic reaction. Antibiotics are ineffective in treating hay fever since it is not caused by a bacterial infection, and thus they have no beneficial role in this context. Corticosteroids can be beneficial for reducing inflammation associated with allergic reactions, but antihistamines are typically the first-line treatment specifically aimed at the symptoms of hay fever.