Decongestants

Nasal decongestants such as oxymetazoline and xylometazoline relieve nasal stuffiness by shrinking the swollen lining of the nose. They should only be used by adults and for short periods of time, otherwise symptoms can reappear when their use is stopped (this is known as 'rebound congestion'). Examples: Vicks Sinex, Otrivine Nasal Spray and Drops.

Mast cell stabilisers

The body's mast cells contain histamine and play a central role in many different allergies. Mast cell stabilisers such as sodium cromoglicate help to stabilise mast cells, preventing them from releasing histamine and thus stopping allergic symptoms such as itchy, red and watery eyes from occurring. Examples: Murine Hayfever Relief Eye Drops, Optrex Allergy Eyes Eye Drops.

Corticosteroids

These are anti-inflammatory drugs used for many conditions, including allergies.

Beclometasone, fluticasone and triamcinolone can help with a variety of symptoms. Examples: Beconase Hayfever, Pirinase Hayfever Nasal Spray.

Topical treatments

Topical antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (example: Benadryl Skin Allergy Relief Cream), anti-itch products such as crotamiton (example: Eurax) and mild topical steroids such as hydrocortisone (examples: Hc45 Hydrocortisone Cream, Lanacort Cream) can all help to relieve the inflammation and itchiness associated with skin allergies.