Final answer:
Antihistamines work to treat allergies by blocking the action of histamines, which are chemicals that cause symptoms like itching, swelling, and sneezing. They can prevent the release of histamines from mast cells or stop already released histamines from binding to receptors, thus relieving allergy symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Action of Antihistamines in Allergy Treatment
The action of antihistamines in allergy treatment involves blocking the effects of histamines in the body. Histamines, which are stored in mast cells, are chemicals responsible for the symptoms of allergic reactions, such as itching, swelling, and nasal congestion. When an individual is exposed to an allergen, the immune system responds by producing Immunoglobulin E (IgE) molecules, which causes mast cells to release histamine, leading to allergy symptoms.
Antihistamines primarily work in two ways:
- They prevent mast cells from releasing histamines (since this reference information does not apply, it has been ignored).
- They block histamines that have already been released from binding to receptors in the body, thus preventing symptoms like itching and swelling.
Antihistamines are typically used for short-term treatment and are available as inexpensive, generic drugs without a prescription. They are effective in relieving symptoms caused by various allergens, including pollen, dust mites, and animal dander. However, for longer-term use, consultation with a medical professional is recommended due to the potential risk of developing other health problems like asthma or sinusitis.
Antihistamines can be grouped into several classes, such as H₁-antihistamines and H₂-antihistamines, based on the histamine receptor they target. H₁-antihistamines help treat allergic responses such as runny nose and sneezing, while H₂-antihistamines are used for conditions like peptic ulcers and acid reflux.