As allergy season ramps up, you may need medications to limit congestion, runny noses, coughs, or itchy eyes. If you are sober, finding effective medication for your allergies that doesn’t trigger your addiction can be difficult. Specific ingredients can be extremely addictive and problematic for individuals who are working hard to stay sober. Knowing allergy alternatives can help you mitigate symptoms without sacrificing your sobriety. Here are some ingredients you should look out for and how you can find safe allergy medications.
The Risks Of Allergy Medications In Sobriety
Some ingredients can lead to habit-forming tendencies in individuals who have struggled with addictions before. These ingredients in medications are known to cause impairments and mimic intoxication. Some main concerns for sober individuals are discussed below.
Medications With Stimulants
Many decongestants will act as a stimulant, which is a common ingredient in allergy medications. Sudafed and other decongestants may increase your heart rate and cause a jittery feeling. Stimulants can be problematic because they can cause many health concerns and make people feel extremely anxious. Those who have had problems with stimulants in the past are more likely to be impulsive and misuse different drugs. Taking an allergy medication with stimulants could set you back on your sober journey.
Alcohol In Liquid Medicines
Liquid allergy medications include alcohol to help dissolve other ingredients. Alcohol can also help preserve the medication to stop the production of bacteria or microorganisms, making the medication effective for longer. However, those who have had alcohol addiction can be triggered by even a small amount of alcohol in medications. For those in recovery, avoiding even just a sip of alcohol is often necessary to continue your sober journey, so looking into alcohol free allergy medications is necessary.
Codeine And Opioid-Based Products
It is not common for allergy treatments to include codeine, but some prescribed options can include opioid-based ingredients. Opioids are very addictive and should be avoided by those in recovery. If your doctor knows about your recovery, they will not prescribe you an allergy medication with codeine or other opioids.
How To Choose Safe Allergy Medications
There are safe allergy medications on the market for those who are dedicated to sobriety. Finding these safe allergy medications will help you treat your symptoms without impaired brain function or craving addictive substances.
There are nasal sprays and antihistamines that don’t include sedatives or addictive substances. Finding these options will help you feel healthy during allergy season without setting you back on your sobriety. Some of these allergy medications also come with negative side effects that make you feel even worse than before. Finding more natural remedies can aid in your health and sobriety.
Natural Remedies For Allergies
If you are nervous about choosing the right allergy medication, there are natural remedies or lifestyle changes that can limit the number of allergy symptoms you experience.
An effective method for limiting allergies is to switch out your air filters. HEPA filters can trap even small allergens that float around your HVAC system. Changing out clogged air filters will trap dust and allergens that cause congestion, itchy eyes, and more. Air filters that are clear of old debris will be able to stop allergens from circulating around your home for months.
Some food types have natural antihistamines that help reduce your feelings of congestion, sleepiness, or headaches. Eating apples or onions can reduce your allergy symptoms without the need for medication.
Talk To Your Doctor Or Pharmacist
Speaking to your doctors about your symptoms and the concerns you have about sobriety is the best way to find appropriate allergy medication. Letting them know about your previous struggles with addiction and your potential triggers will help them determine better medication options. Sharing your recovery journey with medical providers will help you remain safe and healthy while dealing with allergies.
Doctors may also be able to discuss holistic treatments with you to limit allergy symptoms. Non-medical alternatives are often best for patients who deal with addictive tendencies.
Addiction Help From Red Willow
Red Willow Counseling and Recovery is here to help you on your sober journey with different resources and inpatient treatment. Our team is dedicated to providing you with support during your recovery and as you navigate life without addiction. No matter what kind of addiction you have struggled with or are struggling with, our team understands. Red Willow is proud to provide help to those in Utah who experience addiction or substance abuse.
