Hay fever pills: what to know

Hay fever, also called allergic rhinitis, happens when the immune system reacts to airborne allergens such as pollen. Antihistamine tablets block histamine, a chemical involved in sneezing, itching and watery discharge. Some products may cause drowsiness or a dry mouth, while others are less sedating; read the label and see how you respond before driving or operating equipment.

A tablet may not relieve severe nasal blockage as well as a nasal spray. Combination products can contain ingredients that are unsuitable for people with high blood pressure, heart problems, glaucoma or prostate symptoms. Children, pregnancy, breastfeeding and older age also affect medicine choices.

Ask a pharmacist to match the medicine to your main symptom and check for interactions with your regular treatment. Take it exactly as directed, and avoid doubling doses when one dose is missed. Keep windows closed when pollen is high, shower after outdoor activity and change clothes before bed to reduce pollen on skin and hair.

If symptoms return each season, starting treatment before expected exposure may help, depending on the product. A saline rinse or a steroid nasal spray may be discussed when tablets alone are not enough. Do not use someone else’s prescription or give an adult product to a child without advice.

Arrange a medical review if symptoms disturb sleep, limit normal activity, continue despite careful treatment, or are difficult to distinguish from an infection. Seek urgent help for swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, trouble breathing, faintness, or rapidly worsening wheeze. Hay fever can coexist with asthma, so new or worsening breathing symptoms need prompt attention.

Which tablet fits my symptoms and current medicines? Could it make me sleepy? Should I use a nasal spray as well? What is suitable for a child, pregnancy or breastfeeding? How should I manage symptoms if I also have asthma or eye irritation?