As the sun begins to break through the clouds, we’re reminded that spring is just around the corner — bringing longer days, warmer weather, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
But with the changing seasons, it’s important to take a few simple steps to stay safe and well in the sun.
In our Spring/Summer Series, we’ll be sharing practical tips and helpful advice on a range of topics — from travel checklists to sun safety, and much more.
Managing Hay Fever: Getting Ahead of the Season
For many, the arrival of spring also signals the return of hay fever symptoms. Now is the perfect time to prepare and take steps to minimise discomfort so you can enjoy the season ahead.
Hay fever (also known as allergic rhinitis) affects people in different ways and varies in severity. Common symptoms include:
- A blocked or runny nose
- Itchy, watery, or swollen eyes
- An itchy throat
Thankfully, a variety of treatments are available over the counter from your local pharmacy to help relieve symptoms. These include:
- Antihistamine tablets or liquids — These work throughout the body to ease general hay fever symptoms. Some antihistamines may cause drowsiness, so be sure to check which option is most suitable for you. Examples include cetirizine, loratadine, and chlorphenamine.
- Nasal sprays — These provide targeted relief for nasal symptoms like congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. Examples include fluticasone, beclomethasone, and mometasone.
- Eye drops — These help to soothe itchy, red, swollen, or watery eyes. Examples include sodium cromoglicate and Otrivine-Antistin eye drops.
You can often combine different treatments — for example, using an antihistamine tablet alongside a nasal spray — to manage your most troublesome symptoms more effectively.
Your pharmacist can guide you in choosing the right combination for your needs.
Additional Tips to Ease Hay Fever Symptoms
- Eat a spoonful of locally sourced honey daily — some people find it helps reduce hay fever symptoms over time.
- Check the daily pollen forecast to plan ahead and manage your exposure.
- After spending time outdoors, wash your face and hands to remove pollen particles.
- Use a saline nasal spray, such as Sterimar, to rinse your sinuses and clear out allergens.
Your pharmacist is always available to offer advice and recommend suitable treatments — don’t hesitate to ask for support.
