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Manage your allergies
If you are one of 60 million Americans who suffer from nasal allergies, you're probably
already familiar with the symptoms: itchy, watery eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing.
Managing symptoms like these can be a challenge. But the good news is that treatments
are available that can offer effective relief from nasal allergy symptoms. And there
are steps you can take to help minimize your exposure to the triggers that may be
causing your symptoms.
What are nasal allergies?
Nasal allergies are an overreaction by your immune system to allergens, which are
generally harmless things like pollen or dust mites. Your body treats these as if
they were harmful, and so it releases a chemical called histamine. This is what
causes allergy symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing.
The medical term for nasal allergies is "allergic rhinitis." ("Rhinitis"
combines the ancient Greek word for nose, "rhinos," with "itis," which means inflammation.)
Allergy Expert
Dr. Michael S. Blaiss
Watch Dr. Blaiss, a pediatric and adult allergist, discuss the importance of taking
a look at your current allergy treatment with your doctor.
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There is more than one type of nasal allergy
Depending on when or where you are most likely to experience symptoms, you may be
suffering from outdoor allergies (sometimes called "hay fever") or indoor allergies
(year-round allergies) or a combination of both.
Outdoor allergies are for the most part caused by things found
outdoors, like pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds.
Learn more »
Indoor allergies are brought on by indoor allergens, such as dust
mites and pet dander. Learn more »
Nasal allergy or cold?
The symptoms of nasal allergies are similar to those of a cold, but there are some
differences. Here are a few things to consider:
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Nasal allergies
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Common cold
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Symptoms
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Runny nose, sneezing, watery and itchy eyes
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Can include fever, body aches and pains, as well as allergy symptoms
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Duration
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Symptoms last as long as you are exposed to an allergen and beyond
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Symptoms should clear up within several days to a week
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If you think you have nasal allergies or the common cold, please consult with your
doctor for appropriate treatment.
Important Safety Information
Do not take XYZAL if you are allergic to XYZAL, cetirizine or ZYRTEC®. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have
kidney disease. Children 6 months to 11 years of age with impaired kidney function should not take XYZAL.
Patients taking XYZAL should avoid operating machinery or driving a motor vehicle. Taking XYZAL with
alcohol or sedatives should be avoided. Take XYZAL at bedtime. Do not increase the dose due to increased
risk of sleepiness.
In patients 12 years of age and older, side effects may include sleepiness, tiredness, sore throat and dry mouth.
In children 6-12 years of age, side effects may include fever, cough, sleepiness and nose bleeds. In children
1-5 years of age, side effects may include fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and ear infections. In children 6 months
to 11 months of age, side effects may include diarrhea and constipation.
Indications
XYZAL is a prescription medication used to treat the symptoms of year round allergies, as well as a treatment
for chronic hives and rashes of unknown cause (also known as chronic idiopathic urticaria) in patients 6 months
of age and older, and symptoms of seasonal allergies in patients 2 years of age and older.
Please see full Prescribing Information.