Does Benadryl Help Skin Allergies

Antihistamines For Skin Allergies In Dogs

Antihistamines can be of significant benefit in controlling skin allergies in dogs. Althoughnot as universally effective as cortisone type medications , they have fewerside effects and significantly help up to half of dogs with skin allergies. They are wellworth trying in order to avoid or even reduce the level of prednisone needed to controlitching. In any individual patient, one antihistamine may be significantly more effectivethan another. Therefore, it is important to try several until one is found that does help,before determining that they are not effective in your dog.Please try the following antihistamines for a minimum of 2-3 weeks. If effective, continueto give them if your dog is itchy . If one is not effective, proceed to the next one on the list.

Benadryl Dosage For Dogs

The exact Benadryl dose for your dog depends on its size. To determine your dogs Benadryl dosage, talk with your trusted vet. Alternatively, you can follow these guidelines:

• 30 Ibs or smaller 10 mg per dose or 1/2 adult Benadryl tablet
• 30-50 Ibs 25 mg per dose or 1 adult Benadryl tablet
• over 50 Ibs 50 mg per dose or 2 adult Benadryl tablets

When using Benadryl for your dog, it is critical not to exceed the recommended dosage. Too much Benadryl per pound of body weight can result in an overdose. Diphenhydramine overdoses manifest with pronounced excitability of the central nervous system and include signs and symptoms like:

• Dilated pupils
• Agitation
• Constipation

Once you are aware of the importance of giving your dog the right Benadryl dosage, it is time to put the knowledge into practice and administer the medicine. It is best to give your dog Benadryl on a full stomach.

Since most dogs are naturally inclined to refuse tablets, it is a good idea to break the medication and put it in your dogs food or use a pill pocket.

What Not To Use Benadryl For In Cats

Benadryl can be useful in many ways when it comes to your cats health, but there are some situations when your feline shouldnt take Benadryl. Such situations include but are not limited to:

• Making a highly stressed or anxious cat sleep
• When your cat has heart disease
• If your cat suffers from high blood pressure
• A cat that has glaucoma
• When your cat is taking other medication
• After your cat has had a venomous bite

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What Are The Main Differences Between Zyrtec And Benadryl

Zyrtec and Benadryl are brand names for cetirizine and diphenhydramine, respectively. Zyrtec and Benadryl are both antihistamines that block histamine receptors and provide allergy relief. Both products are available in brand and generic and in various formulations to suit multiple ages and patient preferences.

Is Benadryl Good For Allergic Reactions

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Is Benadryl the Best Option for Treating Allergic Reactions?

Dr. Dean Mitchell, Board Certiallergic-reactions-and-benadryl.jpgfied Allergist in NYC, discusses why Benadryl is not the best antihistamine for allergic reactions.

For so many years people have thought that they should take Benadryl for allergic reactions. Its common to get Benadryl in the ER when you are having an allergic reaction and when people go to the drugstore they think Benadryl is the best antihistamine to take to help alleviate their allergies.

Just because Benadryl is the oldest antihistamine doesnt make it the best one to use when you have an allergic reaction. In fact, I rarely recommend using Benadryl for allergic reactions.

Today, there are better choices when you have an allergic reaction such as Claritin, Allegra, Zyrtec, and Sublingual Allergy Drops.

Benadryl vs Claritin

This is a non-sedating antihistamine which means it doesnt cross the blood-brain barrier so it doesnt make you tired. It also works quickly. In fact, today they have a Claritin ready-tab which you just put on your tongue and it works instantly. You can carry around these tabs in your wallet if you are prone to getting allergic reactions you cant predict.

Benadryl vs Allegra

Benadryl vs Zyrtec

Best Option Sublingual Allergy Drops

Dr. Dean Mitchell, M.D.Mitchell Medical Group in NYC & Long Island

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Benadryl And Other Allergy Medications For Dogs

Allergies are frustrating! There is nothing more miserable than watching your furry friend lick incessantly at their paws or scratch themselves raw. Canine allergies are one of the most common medical conditions seen in dogs. While allergies can be bothersome, there may be some potential solutions to helping your pup finally get the rest he or she deserves.

Many effective allergy treatments currently exist for dogs. From over-the-counter Benadryl for dogs to dog allergy supplements and prescription veterinary medications, there are numerous options for treating allergies in dogs.

Remember that prior to starting a new medication, it is always important to consult with your veterinarian. This complete guide will review Benadryl and other allergy treatments for dogs.

Is Benadryl Safe For Your Dog

Benadryl is a relatively safe and effective medication for dogs when used according to the instructions of a veterinarian. As with any new medication, always observe your dog closely after administration to make sure there arent any adverse reactions. If you have any further questions about Benadryl for dogs, contact your veterinarian for more information. And remember to keep all medicines out of reach of your curious canine pal.

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What If I Forget To Take It

Take your forgotten dose as soon as you remember, unless it’s nearly time for your next dose.

Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. Do not take more than 3 capsules in 24 hours.

If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.

Coverage And Cost Comparison Of Zyrtec Vs Benadryl

Because they are available over-the-counter, Zyrtec and Benadryl are not usually covered by insurance or Medicare Part D or Advantage plans. Some exceptions may apply.

A box of 30 tablets of 10 mg cetirizine costs about $12. A SingleCare card can bring the price down to about $5 if you have a doctors prescription.

A box of 24 tablets of 25 mg diphenhydramine costs about $9. A SingleCare card can drop the cost to approximately $4 if you have a prescription from a doctor.

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Avoid Certain Products That May Irritate The Skin

Certain soaps may dry your skin and cause more itching when you have hives. Make sure to use a soap thats marketed for sensitive skin. Find a great selection here. These typically omit fragrance and other irritating chemicals.

You should also avoid using irritating moisturizers or lotions. When in doubt, opt for a formula that targets sensitive skin, such as these options. Applying immediately after bathing may also help soothe the itch.

Zyrtec Vs Other Allergy Medications

Multiple studies show that Zyrtec is better at treating hay fever and hives when compared to Claritin or Allegra . Zyrtec works faster, is more effective, and lasts longer than these other antihistamines.

When used for hives, Zyrtec may work better than Claritin or Allegra but is similar in effectiveness to Xyzal and Clarinex . Zyrtec, however, is more likely than Claritin or Allegra to have the side effect of fatigue.

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How Can You Treat Seasonal Allergies

Home treatment is usually all you need to treat seasonal allergies. For example:

• Clean the inside of your nose with salt water. This can clear a stuffy nose.
• Use a vaporizer or humidifier in the bedroom and take hot showers to help clear a stuffy nose.
• If your nose is red and raw from rubbing, put petroleum jelly on the sore area.
• Use over-the-counter allergy medicine to help your symptoms.
• To relieve a stuffy nose, use a steroid nasal spray . This type of spray can also help with red, itchy, watery eyes.
• Another way to relieve a stuffy nose is a nasal or oral decongestant .
• For itchy, watery eyes sneezing or a runny, itchy nose, try a nonsedating over-the-counter antihistamine, like fexofenadine or loratadine .
• To help relieve pain, try acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

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Alternatives For Bee Stings And Insect Bites

Insect bites and stings are another ailment people use Benadryl for. But there are much better options.

Fast Remedies For Insect Stings

When Im out in the woods with my dogs in the summer, I always carry two homeopathic remedies with me

• Ledum palustre : an effective remedy for most insect stings or puncture wounds.
• Apis mellifica : this remedy works well for allergic reactions. It helps with stings or red or swollen bites.

Ive seen my dogs get stung on a few occasions. They might step on a ground hornet, or get a bee sting on the face. One of these remedies will usually bring down the pain and swelling right away.

• Try Apis first if the sting becomes very swollen and red, with lots of itching and even pain.
• Try Ledum first if the bite area is cold and puffy.

Carry the little tubes of pellets with you. If your dog gets stung:

• Twist the tube until 2-3 pellets fall into the cap
• Try not to touch the pellets with your hands
• Tip the pellets into his mouth straight out of the cap.
• Give 2 or 3 doses like this in the first hour.
• You should see a very quick improvement, with reduced swelling and discomfort.
• If not, try the other remedy.

Plaintain More Than A Weed!

A great herbal remedy for insect bites is one you might find whenever youre out walking. You may consider it a weed in your back yard but plantain is a great way to treat insect stings in an emergency.

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When To Use Benadryl For Dogs

You can use Benadryl when dealing with a dogs allergic reaction for symptoms management. Alternatively, you can use this medicine to prevent certain scenarios for your pup.

For example, if your dog suffers from anxiety during fireworks, giving it Benadryl before the celebration starts will prevent stress and keep your pup calm and relaxed.

If you are unsure whether your dog can benefit from regular or occasional Benadryl use, do not hesitate to talk to your trusted veterinarian.

Managing Allergy Headaches And Triggers

The key to managing your allergies and reducing headaches is limiting exposure to allergens and triggers.

• Stay indoors and keep the windows shut when pollen counts are high.
• Wear glasses or sunglasses outdoors to keep pollen from getting in your eyes.
• Use the air conditioning in your home and in your car. Make sure to change out the air filters regularly and keep AC units clean.
• Use mite-proof covers in your bedroom for pillows, comforters, and mattresses to reduce exposure to dust mites.
• Keep your homes humidity at 30-50% to reduce exposure to mold. Clean your kitchen, bathrooms, and basement regularly and use a dehumidifier in damp, humid places.
• Wash floors with a damp mop or rag to avoid dry-sweeping or dusting.
• If you are allergic to a pet, keep them outside of your home. If a pet must be kept indoors, keep it out of the bedroom so you are not exposed to allergens while you sleep.
• Replace carpeting with hardwood, tile or linoleum to reduce dander in the home.

Many sinus headache triggers are airborne and difficult to avoid. Discuss your options with your allergist to decide which treatment options are best for you.

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Precautions To Be Kept In Mind

Speak to your doctor before taking this medicine in case you are allergic to the medicine or any of its components. There could be some inactive ingredients in this product which could be allergic to you. Hence always look at the ingredient list and discuss with the doctor to make sure that you are not allergic to any of it.

Before consuming this medicine, make sure to discuss about your entire medical history including breathing issues like asthma, hypertension, cardiac issues, liver or kidney diseases and other severe medical conditions with your doctor.

This drug could induce drowsiness or dizziness and hence must be avoided when driving, operating heavy machinery or undertaking any activity that requires concentration and focus. Avoid having alcohol when consuming this medicine. If you are scheduled for a surgery, speak to your doctor if you have been consuming this medication recently to avoid any ambiguity.

Although allergies are troublesome, they can be managed very well with the right information and conscious effort. Speak to your doctor about the various ways that can help you manage your allergies effectively and in the most healthy manner.

Cautions With Other Medicines

Some medicines and acrivastine interfere with each other and increase the chances of you having side effects.

Check with your pharmacist or doctor if you’re taking:

• erythromycin, an antibiotic
• ritonavir, a medicine used to treat HIV infection
• any medicine that makes you sleepy, gives you a dry mouth, or makes it difficult for you to pee – taking acrivastine might make these side effects worse

Acrivastine mixed with pseudoephinedrine interferes with lots of medicines. Check with your pharmacist or doctor before you take it.

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How Does Acetaminophen Relieve Allergy And Sinus Symptoms

Acetaminophen relieves any of the pain and fever that may be associated with allergy reactions and sinus congestion.

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

When To See A Doctor

You should see a doctor if you feel that you have a cold and it isnt improving after three to four days. Or, you have an underlying medical condition that puts you more at risk of experiencing complications with a cold, such as:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease

Furthermore, you should see a doctor if you feel as though you initially were getting better but then experienced worsening symptoms as you could be developing a secondary bacterial infection, pneumonia, or bacterial sinus infection.

Most allergies are controlled through over-the-counter medication. However, if you find that these medications arent effective, visit your doctor to determine exactly what youre allergic to and learn new strategies to better manage your allergies.

Determining whether you have a cold or are suffering from allergies can be difficult in some cases. However, if you consider the numerous ways to differentiate the two, you can receive the best possible treatment and get back to feeling like yourself again.

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Poison Ivy Oak And Sumac

Any part of the body that comes in contact with poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac may get red and itchy and swell, sometimes followed by blisters. All three plants contain the toxin urushiol, which causes an allergic reaction in most people. Youll likely notice the rash within 48-72 hours, and symptoms could actually worsen as many as five days later. While the rash should go away on its own within one to two weeks, you can ease the itching with calamine lotion, hydrocortisone 1% applied to the rash, and an antihistamine .

See your doctor if your rash is severe or your eyes, face, or genitals are affected. Clothing, garden tools, or even pets that have been exposed to poison ivy, oak, or sumac, can spread the toxin. The oil from these plants is most potent for 30 to 60 minutes after contact, so wash your clothing and rinse exposed skin with soap and water.

What Happens If I Miss A Dose

Since Tylenol Allergy Multi-Symptom is taken when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

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Side Effects Associated With Benadryl

Some of the common side effects associated with this medication include sleepiness, drowsiness, constipation, an upset stomach, dryness of the mouth or nose etc. Speak to your doctor immediately if symptoms get worse.

If you suffer from dryness in the mouth, try sucking on a hard candy or ice chips. Drinking a lot of water to create moisture helps too.

This medicine should be consumed as instructed by the doctor. The frequency and dosage of the medicine should not be altered on your own. When your doctor recommends this medicine, they think your chances of benefiting from this medicine are far more than the risk of side effects and hence you are less likely to face any severe side effects. In case if you do notice any significant side effects that are disturbing your health, speak to your doctor immediately. Some serious side effects like changes in behavior or moods, trouble in urinating or fast heartbeats should be discussed immediately with the doctor.

Benadryl For Cat Allergies: Bottom Line

At the end of it all, we all know that you want the best for your four-legged furry friend. This means being informed so that you can make the right decisions as far as giving Benadryl to your cat is concerned.

Many cats can have Benadryl with no complications whatsoever. That does, however, not rule out the importance of involving a vet before giving the drug to your pet. Its always vital to keep in touch with a vet and doing what they advise to avoid emergency cases.

Keep in mind, also, that the use of conventional medication is not the only way to solve allergy problems in cats. There are a variety of natural alternatives if you dont want to deal with medications. Whatever your decision is, its always advisable to seek some expert assistance for better results.

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