Do I Have Hay Fever? Identify and Treat Seasonal Allergies

As hay fever season approaches, many people begin to experience the familiar symptoms of sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common condition caused by an allergic reaction to pollen. While it can be frustrating, there are ways to manage symptoms effectively. At Junction Pharmacy, we are here to support you through the NHS Pharmacy First pathway, offering advice and treatment to help you enjoy the warmer months with ease.

Identifying Hay Fever Symptoms

Hay fever symptoms can vary from person to person but are typically triggered when pollen levels are high. If you notice cold-like symptoms that follow a seasonal pattern, you may be experiencing hay fever. Symptoms include:

–> Frequent sneezing

–> Runny or blocked nose

–> Itchy or watery eyes

–> Itchy throat, mouth, nose, or ears

–> Coughing

–> Loss of smell

–> Headaches or sinus pain

–> Feeling tired

For many, symptoms worsen when spending time outdoors, particularly in grassy or wooded areas. If you notice a pattern of symptoms occurring at the same time each year, hay fever is a likely cause.

How Junction Pharmacy Can Support You

Managing hay fever effectively starts with getting the right advice. Through the Pharmacy First pathway, our trained pharmacists can assess your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. This means you don’t need to book a GP appointment – simply visit us, and we’ll help you find the best way to control your hay fever.

The Pharmacy First scheme allows us to provide professional guidance on managing symptoms, lifestyle adjustments, and the best medication for your needs. Whether you are experiencing mild or severe symptoms, our team can offer tailored support to keep your allergies in check.

Treatment Options for Hay Fever

There are several effective treatments for hay fever, and choosing the right one depends on the severity of your symptoms. Below is a breakdown of the most common treatments available at Junction Pharmacy:

1. Antihistamines

Antihistamines are the first line of defence against hay fever symptoms. They work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the immune system during an allergic reaction.

Tablets and Capsules – Available in both non-drowsy and drowsy formulations, these help reduce sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Popular options include loratadine and cetirizine.

Antihistamine Eye Drops – If itchy, red, or watery eyes are your main concern, antihistamine eye drops can provide fast relief. These work by reducing inflammation and stopping the allergic response in the eyes.

Antihistamine Nasal Sprays – Ideal for nasal congestion and sneezing, these help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and relieve symptoms quickly.

2. Steroid Nasal Sprays

For those experiencing persistent hay fever symptoms, steroid nasal sprays can be highly effective. These reduce swelling and irritation in the nasal passages, helping to relieve congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. Common options include fluticasone and beclometasone nasal sprays.

3. Decongestants

If nasal congestion is making it difficult to breathe, decongestant sprays or tablets can provide short-term relief. However, these should only be used for a few days to avoid rebound congestion.

4. Eye Drops for Hay Fever

In addition to antihistamine eye drops, there are other options available to soothe irritated eyes:

Mast cell stabiliser eye drops – These help prevent allergic reactions before they start by reducing histamine release in the eyes.

Lubricating eye drops – Also known as artificial tears, these can help wash out allergens and keep the eyes hydrated.

5. Allergen Avoidance Strategies

While medication is effective, reducing your exposure to pollen can also help manage hay fever symptoms. Here are some tips:

–> Keep windows closed during high pollen counts.

–> Wear wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes.

–> Shower and change clothes after being outdoors to remove pollen.

–> Apply a barrier balm around your nostrils to trap pollen.

–> Avoid cutting grass or spending long periods in grassy areas.

Visit Junction Pharmacy for Hay Fever Support

If you suspect you have hay fever or need help managing your symptoms, contact us at Junction Pharmacy. Our team is here to provide expert advice and recommend the best treatments, including antihistamine eye drops, tablets, and nasal sprays. Through the Pharmacy First pathway, we can offer convenient, professional support without the need for a GP appointment.

Don’t let hay fever ruin your spring and summer. Drop into Junction Pharmacy today and take control of your allergies with the right treatment and expert guidance.

This blog was written on behalf of Junction Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.