Hay fever: what helps, and when to ask us

Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen. It affects millions of people in the UK, and with the right treatment most people can keep their symptoms well under control.

Common symptoms

• Sneezing and a runny or blocked nose
• Itchy, red or watery eyes
• An itchy throat, mouth, nose or ears
• Headaches, tiredness and loss of smell

When is hay fever season?

It depends which pollen you react to. In the UK, tree pollen is usually highest from late March to mid May, grass pollen from mid May to July, and weed pollen from late June to September. Checking the daily pollen forecast helps you plan ahead.

Treatments that work

• Antihistamine tablets or liquids, such as cetirizine or loratadine, can ease sneezing, itching and watery eyes. Non-drowsy options are available.
• Steroid nasal sprays reduce inflammation and are particularly good for a blocked nose. They work best when used every day, starting before the season begins.
• Eye drops can soothe itchy, watery eyes.

Your pharmacist can help you choose the right combination, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, buying for a child or taking other medicines.

Practical tips

• Put a little petroleum jelly around your nostrils to help trap pollen.
• Wear wraparound sunglasses when you are outdoors.
• Shower and change your clothes after being outside.
• Keep windows closed, especially in the early morning and evening.
• Avoid drying washing outside on high pollen days.
• Revising for exams? Start treatment early so symptoms do not affect your concentration.

When to see a GP

Speak to your GP if over the counter treatments are not helping, or if your symptoms are affecting your sleep or daily life. If you have asthma and hay fever makes your breathing worse, get advice promptly. Call 999 if you have severe difficulty breathing.