What is a standard treatment for hay fever?

Antihistamines are commonly recognized as a standard treatment for hay fever, which is an allergic response to pollen or other allergens. When the body encounters an allergen, it releases histamine, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes. Antihistamines work by blocking the action of histamine, thereby alleviating these symptoms effectively.

While decongestants can also provide relief from nasal congestion associated with hay fever, they do not address the underlying allergic reaction. Corticosteroids can be used in some cases to reduce inflammation, but they are generally reserved for more severe allergic reactions or when other treatments have failed. Antibiotics are intended for bacterial infections and are not effective for allergic conditions like hay fever. Therefore, antihistamines are the most appropriate first-line treatment for managing the symptoms associated with hay fever.