Hay Fever Relief: Your Complete Guide to Managing Allergies
Hay fever affects millions of UK residents each year. Learn about effective treatments and how our pharmacists can help you find relief.
Hay Fever Relief: Your Complete Guide to Managing Allergies
Spring is here, and for millions of hay fever sufferers, that means sneezing, streaming eyes, and miserable symptoms that can last for months. Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) affects approximately 1 in 5 people in the UK, making it one of our most common allergies.
At Pulteney Pharmacy, we're here to help you find effective relief so you can enjoy the warmer months.
What is Hay Fever?
Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen—the fine powder released by plants during their reproductive cycle. When pollen comes into contact with your eyes, nose, mouth, or throat, your immune system overreacts, releasing histamine and causing symptoms.
Common Hay Fever Symptoms
- Frequent sneezing
- Runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, red, or watery eyes
- Itchy throat, mouth, nose, and ears
- Coughing
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Loss of smell
For some people, hay fever is a minor annoyance. For others, it significantly impacts work, sleep, and quality of life.
Understanding Pollen Seasons
Different pollens cause symptoms at different times:
| Pollen Type | Season | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Tree pollen | Late March - Mid May | April |
| Grass pollen | Mid May - July | June |
| Weed pollen | Late June - September | July-August |
Knowing which pollen affects you helps with planning and treatment timing.
Hay Fever Treatments Available
Antihistamines
Antihistamines block histamine, the chemical causing your symptoms.
Non-drowsy options (preferred for daytime):
- Cetirizine (Piriteze)
- Loratadine (Clarityn)
- Fexofenadine (Telfast) — often more effective for severe symptoms
Sedating antihistamines (useful if symptoms affect sleep):
- Chlorphenamine (Piriton)
Nasal Sprays
Steroid nasal sprays are highly effective for nasal symptoms:
- Beclometasone (Beconase)
- Fluticasone (Flixonase)
- Mometasone
Tip: Start using 2 weeks before your season begins for best results.
Antihistamine nasal sprays (Azelastine) work faster but need more frequent dosing.
Eye Drops
For itchy, watery eyes:
- Sodium cromoglicate
- Antihistamine eye drops (Olopatadine)
Combination Therapy
Severe symptoms often respond best to combination treatment:
- Antihistamine tablet + steroid nasal spray + eye drops
Our pharmacists can recommend the most effective combination for your symptoms.
Practical Tips for Hay Fever Sufferers
Reduce Pollen Exposure
- Check daily pollen forecasts
- Keep windows closed, especially in early morning and evening
- Shower and change clothes after being outdoors
- Dry laundry indoors during high pollen counts
- Wear wraparound sunglasses outside
- Apply petroleum jelly around nostrils to trap pollen
In Your Home
- Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter
- Dust with a damp cloth
- Consider an air purifier
- Keep pets groomed (they carry pollen in their fur)
When Outdoors
- Avoid freshly mown grass
- Stay indoors on high pollen count days when possible
- Garden in the evening when pollen counts drop
When to See a Pharmacist vs GP
See us (your pharmacist) for:
- First-time hay fever treatment advice
- Recommendations for over-the-counter options
- Prescription-strength antihistamines (we can supply some)
- General management advice
See your GP for:
- Symptoms not controlled by pharmacy treatments
- Asthma worsening with hay fever
- Consideration for immunotherapy (desensitisation treatment)
Get Expert Advice Today
Don't suffer through another pollen season. Our pharmacists can assess your symptoms and recommend the most effective treatment plan.
📞 01225 466454 | 📍 35 Great Pulteney Street, Bath
Breathe easier this spring and summer.