What is the primary role of antihistamines in treating allergies?

Antihistamines primarily function by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that is released during an allergic reaction. Histamine is responsible for many allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and hives. By preventing histamine from binding to its receptors in the tissues, antihistamines effectively reduce or eliminate these symptoms.

This mechanism of action makes antihistamines a cornerstone in allergy treatment, as they directly address the root cause of the symptoms by inhibiting the body's response to allergens. While some antihistamines can have sedative effects, which might help with sleep, this is not their primary role in treating allergies. Similarly, they do not directly reduce inflammation or strengthen the immune system; rather, their main purpose is to specifically oppose the effects of histamine.