Remedies for hay fever allergies

Hay fever, also called Allergic Rhinitis, is an immune response to airborne triggers such as pollen. It can cause sneezing, an itchy or blocked nose, watery eyes, cough, throat irritation, and disturbed sleep. Allergic Conjunctivitis commonly affects the eyes at the same time. Symptoms may follow a seasonal pattern or occur around a particular trigger.

Check local pollen information and keep windows closed when levels are high. Shower or change clothes after time outdoors, keep outdoor items away from the bed, and avoid drying laundry outside during high-pollen periods. Saline nasal rinsing may clear irritants; use clean water and follow product instructions.

A pharmacist can help choose an antihistamine, steroid nasal spray, or allergy eye treatment. Nasal sprays work best when used with correct technique and regularity; aim away from the middle wall of the nose. Ask before using treatment in pregnancy, for a child, or alongside other medicines. Do not rely on decongestant sprays for prolonged use.

Arrange a review if symptoms disrupt sleep, work, or exercise, persist despite pharmacy treatment, or cause frequent nosebleeds. Seek urgent help for wheezing, chest tightness, severe breathlessness, swelling of the lips or tongue, or trouble swallowing. Persistent cough or recurrent sinus symptoms may need assessment for Asthma or Sinusitis rather than being attributed to hay fever alone.

Ask which trigger is most likely, how to use a nasal spray correctly, and whether testing or a different treatment is appropriate. Mention eye symptoms, night-time breathing problems, or a cough that continues outside allergy periods.