Fluticasone nasal sprays are some of the most effective and commonly prescribed treatments for allergy symptoms in the country today. But if you have recently been prescribed or recommended one of these sprays, you may be wondering exactly how it can suppress your allergic reactions when almost nothing else seems to work. This corticosteroid, formally known as fluticasone propionate, works on a number of fronts to reduce inflammation and alter protein production in your cells, dramatically reducing your allergic symptoms over the course of several days. Keep reading to better understand the scientific mechanisms behind fluticasone nasal sprays and how they can impact your body's response to allergic stimuli.
Walking Through an Allergic Reaction
When you come in contact with an allergen like pollen, dust or dander, your immune system reacts to the perceived threat, creating proteins known as antibodies to recognize and ensnare any unwelcome visitors. These antibodies trap allergen molecules by anchoring them to other cells, prompting the release of histamines to facilitate the response of white blood cells attacking the intruding allergens. It is these histamines that cause the itching, wheezing and sinus issues commonly associated with allergies. The actual process of an allergic reaction involves a complex system of other cell types, proteins and chemical reactions as well, but this basic overview should be sufficient to understand how fluticasone works.
Suppressing Your Inflammatory Response System
Corticosteroids like fluticasone mimic chemicals produced naturally by your body to regulate your immune system and its inflammatory responses. When you absorb fluticasone through your nose, it binds to glucocorticoid receptors in your cells, suppressing the production of inflammatory molecules and encouraging the production of anti-inflammatory proteins instead. It is also believed to inhibit histamines and increase white blood cell numbers, improving your body's response to the allergic reaction as it occurs. Fluticasone is particularly useful as a nasal spray because it is absorbed quickly and remains localized, treating only your sinus inflammation as a result.
Preventing Allergy Symptoms Before They are Triggered
Fluticasone and similar corticosteroids are so effective that they are often prescribed as a fast-acting asthma treatment, but it can take several days to feel the full effect when it comes to your allergies. By beginning treatment before you anticipate exposure to allergens, such as the days before pollen season, you can dramatically reduce the severity of your initial reactions and avoid the risks and discomfort associated with them. If you are curious about using a nasal spray to escape the misery of your allergies, talk to your doctor about the associated risks and whether or not you are eligible for this form of treatment. With a little diligence and the help of powerful anti-inflammatories, you may be able to face your allergic triggers with barely a sniffle in response.
Speak with a medical professional to learn more.
Share26 April 2016
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