Hay fever is the most common seasonal allergy. It affects one in five people and can start at any point in life. If you’ve never had it before, it can take you by surprise. The symptoms can be frustrating and make everyday life more difficult.
But hay fever doesn’t have to keep you indoors. Your local community pharmacy team can recommend treatments to help manage the symptoms so you can still enjoy the warmer weather.
What causes hay fever
Hay fever is triggered by an allergic reaction to pollen. Tree pollen appears in spring, grass pollen in late spring and summer, and weed pollen in the autumn. The reaction causes inflammation in the nose, eyes, throat and sinuses, leading to discomfort and irritation.
Common symptoms
You may experience sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, coughing and itchy eyes, nose, mouth or ears. These symptoms can vary depending on the pollen in the air and how sensitive you are to it.
How your pharmacy can help
There is no cure for hay fever, but many treatments are available to ease the symptoms. Your local pharmacy offers over-the-counter options such as antihistamine tablets, nasal sprays and eye drops.
Pharmacists are trained healthcare professionals. They can advise on the best treatment based on your symptoms and check that any products you take won’t interfere with regular medication.
Simple ways to ease symptoms
You can take practical steps to reduce the impact of hay fever. Try putting a small amount of petroleum jelly just inside your nostrils to trap pollen. Wearing wraparound sunglasses can also help keep pollen out of your eyes.
Where to find help
To find your nearest pharmacy, visit Find a pharmacy – NHS and enter your postcode.
For more information about treating hay fever, visit www.nhs.uk.
You can also watch an NHS hay fever advice video here.