What is the recommended treatment for hay fever?

Antihistamines are recognized as the recommended treatment for hay fever because they specifically target the symptoms caused by allergens, such as pollen, that provoke an allergic response. When the body encounters allergens, it releases histamine, a chemical that contributes to allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Antihistamines work by blocking the action of histamine, thereby alleviating these symptoms.

While decongestants can help relieve nasal congestion that may accompany hay fever, they do not address the underlying allergic reaction. Corticosteroids may be used for more severe allergic reactions or persistent symptoms but are not typically the first-line treatment for hay fever. Bronchodilators are primarily used to relax muscles in the airways and are more relevant for conditions like asthma rather than hay fever. Therefore, antihistamines are the most effective and commonly recommended treatment option for managing hay fever symptoms.