Hay fever symptoms include a runny nose, itching, coughing, watery eyes, sneezing, and congestion. Also called seasonal allergic rhinitis, it results from an allergic reaction to pollen, usually from grasses, trees, weeds, and crops.
This reaction causes the nose, sinuses, and eyes to release histamine, triggering symptoms. Hence, the most common treatments are called antihistamines.
Symptoms of Hay Fever:
- Sneezing and a runny or blocked nose.
- Itchy or watery eyes.
- Itchy throat, mouth, nose, or ears.
- Coughing.
- Feeling tired.
- Headache or facial pain (from a blocked nose).
NHS Information for Patients
Check out the NHS website for further Information on Hay Fever.
The Allergy UK website is also also a very useful resource
https://www.allergyuk.org/types-of-allergies/hayfever
Causes of Hay Fever:
Hay fever happens when the immune system overreacts to pollen. Different types of pollen can cause symptoms at different times of the year:
- Tree pollen – early spring.
- Grass pollen – late spring to summer (most common).
- Weed pollen – late summer to autumn.
How to Manage Hay Fever:
There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed by avoiding pollen and using medicines like antihistamines.
Ways to Avoid Pollen:
- Stay indoors when pollen levels are high (check pollen forecasts).
- Keep windows and doors shut, especially in the morning and evening.
- Shower and change clothes after being outside to remove pollen.
- Wear wraparound sunglasses to protect eyes.
- Put Vaseline around nostrils to trap pollen.
- Avoid drying clothes outside when pollen levels are high.
- Use air filters in the home.
Pharmacy Treatments for Hay Fever:
- Antihistamines – These help stop allergic reactions and reduce symptoms. They are available as tablets, nasal sprays, or eye drops.
- Nasal sprays – Steroid sprays help reduce swelling and irritation in the nose.
- Eye drops – Can help with itchy and watery eyes.
- Decongestants – These help with a blocked nose but should not be used for more than a few days.
When to See a Doctor:
- Symptoms are very bad and affect daily life.
- Over-the-counter treatments do not help.
- You have asthma and hay fever is making it worse.
A doctor may prescribe stronger treatments, such as steroid tablets or immunotherapy (a long-term treatment to help the body become less sensitive to pollen).
Final Tips:
Hay fever can be annoying, but with the right steps, symptoms can be managed. Taking medication early in the season and avoiding pollen can make a big difference.