Once testing has revealed that a patient’s symptoms are due to an allergy, a physician (usually an allergy specialist) will devise a treatment plan. In cases of very mild allergies, the patient may be urged to make certain lifestyle modifications that may be effective in preventing symptoms on a day-to-day basis. This often involves avoiding the problem allergen, when possible. For instance, people with pollen allergies may benefit from staying indoors as much as possible when pollen counts are high. Over-the-counter antihistamines or decongestants also might be suggested as a means of treating minor flare-ups.

Those with moderate to severe allergies may be given a prescription allergy medication. Prescription antihistamines, decongestants and steroid nasal sprays are among the drugs used to effectively treat allergies. Bronchodilators and leukotriene modifiers may also be recommended for people whose allergies trigger asthma attacks or asthma-like symptoms.

Most physicians recommend that individuals who are susceptible to severe reactions carry an injection of epinephrine with them at all times and understand how to self–administer the drug. A medical alert bracelet or necklace is also a good idea for these individuals.

Finally, if all other methods fail to treat the problem, allergy shots (immunotherapy) may be recommended. In this treatment, a small dose of the offending allergen is injected under a patient’s skin on a periodic basis.  In many cases, the patient’s tolerance level to these allergens rises dramatically, causing a significant reduction in symptoms.