A patient with allergy symptoms experiences swelling and nasal discharge. Which medication would be most effective?

In the context of allergy symptoms, particularly those presenting as swelling and nasal discharge, antihistamines are the most effective medication choice. Antihistamines work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical in the body that is released during an allergic reaction. This helps reduce symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itching, providing quick relief for patients experiencing these symptoms.

Steroids, while helpful in reducing inflammation, are generally used for more severe allergic reactions and take longer to show effects. Decongestants may temporarily relieve nasal congestion but don't address other allergy symptoms like sneezing and nasal itching. Bronchodilators are focused on treating respiratory conditions such as asthma and would not be appropriate for treating allergy-related nasal symptoms directly. Therefore, antihistamines are the best option for alleviating the combination of swelling and nasal discharge associated with allergies.