How do leukotriene modifiers manage allergy symptoms?
Typical symptoms of allergies include sneezing, itchy nose, clear mucus, and nasal congestion. In addition, allergies cause itchy, swollen, and watery eyes (allergic conjunctivitis) and frequent throat clearing. Studies show that more than 85% of people with asthma also have symptoms of allergies. In addition, untreated allergies often cause sinusitis, sore throats, cough, sleep problems, irritability, and low productivity at school and in the workplace. Leukotriene modifiers work by blocking the action of leukotrienes, one cause of the inflammation and nasal congestion associated with allergies. For those with allergies and asthma, leukotriene modifiers help keep bronchial tubes from constricting. According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology, leukotriene modifiers can block both the early response to allergic triggers (sneezing and itching) as well as the delayed response to allergens that result in nasal congestion.
