It’s almost that time of year again.
In many parts of the country the temps are dropping, the leaves are changing, and the birds are headed south for winter.
It also means that many of us are starting to suffer from seasonal allergies. The sniffling, the runny nose, the congestion, and especially the sinus pain all leave you wanting to dive under the covers and hibernate until the season change passes.
But, if you’re one of the many who tend to reach for antihistamines to battle allergies, you might want to think twice.
New research shows that these seemingly harmless medications could be putting your health at serious risk…
Recent findings published in JAMA Network Open have revealed a disturbing connection between first-generation antihistamines, such as Benadryl, Chlor-Trimeton, and Tavist, and an increased risk of seizures in children.
Researchers analyzed over 11,000 cases and found that children aged 6 to 24 months were 49% more likely to experience seizures after being prescribed these medications.
While the study focused on children, this is a red flag for everyone—including seniors.
First-generation antihistamines, though widely available over the counter, are notorious for causing sedation. But their effects don’t stop at drowsiness.
These drugs can have a much more severe impact on older adults, whose bodies process medication differently as they age. The potential dangers are not just about sleepiness—they can affect memory, concentration, and even your mental health.
While antihistamines may provide temporary relief from allergy symptoms, taking them regularly could significantly increase your risk of cognitive decline.
In fact, a major study involving over 3,000 seniors found that taking first-generation antihistamines for three years or more raised the risk of developing dementia by a staggering 54%.
Yes, you read that right. These medications, often seen as a minor convenience for allergy sufferers, could be putting your brain health in jeopardy. While the study was observational, meaning it couldn’t definitively prove that antihistamines cause dementia, the association is alarming enough to warrant serious caution.
Moreover, many over-the-counter sleep aids, like Unisom and ZzzQuil, contain the same ingredients found in these first-generation antihistamines. This means that without even realizing it, you could be exposing yourself to heightened risks every time you take something to help you sleep.
The dangers of antihistamines don’t stop at dementia. Long-term use has also been linked to worsening depression, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges. In some cases, these medications may even interfere with your ability to think clearly or concentrate.
But perhaps most disturbing is the growing body of evidence linking antihistamine use to glioma, the most common type of malignant brain tumor.
Though the research is still in its early stages, any potential connection between antihistamines and cancer is too significant to ignore.
The good news is that there are safer, natural alternatives that can provide effective allergy relief without putting your brain, mood, and overall health at risk. Here are a few worth considering:
Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica): This plant has been used for centuries to relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Available in freeze-dried capsules, stinging nettle has been shown to ease sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion with far fewer side effects than antihistamines. A typical dose is 1 to 2 capsules every 2 to 4 hours as needed.
Butterbur (Petasites hybridus): Butterbur has been shown to work as effectively as Zyrtec for treating hay fever, but without the drowsiness. Research suggests that 4 to 5 doses per day of butterbur can significantly reduce allergy symptoms while keeping you alert.
Nasal Irrigation: If you’re looking for immediate relief, nasal irrigation with a warm saline solution can help clear allergens from your nasal passages, reducing congestion and irritation without any medications.
HEPA Filters: Installing HEPA filters in your home can help remove airborne allergens, such as pollen, pet dander, and dust, ensuring that your indoor environment is as allergen-free as possible. For those sensitive to outdoor allergens, this can be a game-changer during allergy season.
While first-generation antihistamines might seem like an easy fix for your allergy woes, the risks far outweigh the benefits—especially if you’re using them long-term. With serious side effects like seizures, dementia, and even cancer, it’s time to reconsider what you’re putting into your body.
To natural allergy relief,
Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team
P.S. Fight back allergy attacks with this “aquatic” superfood.
Sources:
Solomon, L. (2024, September 4). First-generation antihistamines increase risk for seizures in children. Medicalxpress.com; Medical Xpress. https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-09-generation-antihistamines-seizures-children.html
Weil, D. (2017, May). Are Antihistamines Dangerous? – DrWeil.com. DrWeil.com. https://www.drweil.com/health-wellness/body-mind-spirit/allergy-asthma/are-antihistamines-dangerous/
