Hay Fever Treatment
What is Hay Fever?
Approximately 10-15% of the population suffer from hay fever. It is caused by an allergic reaction to pollen, typically when it comes into contact with your eyes, nose, mouth and throat. Although pollen itself s harmless, in hay fever sufferers, it is the body's immune system that overreacts to the allergen and can cause the following symptoms:
Sneezing
Coughing
Itchy, red, watery eyes
Runny/blocked nose
How to treat Hay Fever
- Limiting pollen exposure
- Place vaseline around the nostrils to trap the pollen
- Wear wrap-around sunglasses
- Stay inside as much as possible
- Damp dust and vacuum regularly
What treatments can help?
Antihistamines
These block the action of histamine, which is released by the body when it detects something harmful, or pollen in the case of hay fever.
Steroid Nasal Spray
Steroid nasal sprays contain man-made hormones which act in the body to reduce inflammation and swelling. They work on the lining of the nose and reduce symptoms such as sneezing and blocked nose.
Eye Drops
If eye symptoms are the main feature, using topical antihistamine eye drops may control the problem.
Need more support?
Come and discuss the options available in clinic with one of our nurses.
First line treatment for hay fever should consist of limiting pollen exposure and over the counter medications as advised by the NICE guidelines.
Consultation
Our nurses will carry out a medical assessment and establish the severity of symptoms. Advice and a variety of treatments will be offered
to help support you through this challenging period of the year.
An Allergan Registered Practitioner
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