Hay Fever: Comprehensive Management and Treatment Strategies
Hay fever, medically known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic condition characterized by a range of symptoms triggered by airborne allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander. At our clinic, we offer a range of treatment options and advice to help patients manage this condition effectively. Effectively managing hay fever involves a combination of tailored medical treatments and lifestyle adjustments.
Hay fever occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens, resulting in symptoms such as sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes, and a sore throat. These symptoms can significantly impact the quality of life, affecting sleep, work, and daily activities
Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds Dust mites Pet dander Mold spores
Our offerings include tablets, nasal sprays, and eye drops, all designed to lessen the impact of hayfever on your daily life. Pollen, a fine powder produced by plants, is the primary allergen causing hayfever, affecting most sufferers during the summer months from May to August. Allergic reactions to pollen trigger symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and sometimes headaches or general malaise.
Although our treatments can significantly reduce symptoms, they are not a cure for hayfever. The symptoms may return once treatment stops.
Antihistamines
Usage: Block histamine, which causes allergy symptoms.
Forms: Tablets, nasal sprays, eye drops.
Examples: Loratadine, Cetirizine, Azelastine.
Side Effects: Drowsiness (less common with newer antihistamines), dry mouth, dizziness.
Nasal Corticosteroids
Mechanism: Reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
Usage: Regular use for full benefit.
Examples: Fluticasone, Mometasone, Budesonide.
Side Effects: Nasal irritation or dryness, nosebleeds, unpleasant taste or smell.
Decongestants
Usage: Provide short-term relief from nasal congestion.
Forms: Oral and nasal sprays.
Caution: Short-term use only; can cause rebound congestion if overused.
Side Effects: Insomnia, headache, increased blood pressure.
Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy)
Description: Gradually increases tolerance to allergens.
Duration: Several years, for severe or treatment-resistant cases.
Side Effects: Redness or swelling at the injection site, rare systemic allergic reactions.
Additional Treatments
Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists: Like Montelukast, used especially in asthmatic patients.
Side Effects: Headache, stomach pain, heartburn.
Eye Drops: Antihistamine or mast cell stabilizers.
Side Effects: Eye irritation, redness, blurred vision.
Always refer to the Patient Information Leaflet included with your medicine for full details.
Important Safety Information Inform us of any other medications or health conditions. Optilast eye drops should be used for a maximum of six weeks, and Rhinocort nasal spray for three months. Remove contact lenses before using eye drops and wait 15 minutes before reinserting them.
Avoidance and Lifestyle Strategies
Monitor and respond to pollen forecasts.
Use air purifiers; keep windows closed during high pollen seasons.
Wash bedding in hot water; consider allergen-proof covers.
Shower after outdoor activities; wear sunglasses outside.
Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise.
This service is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
Treatment In addition to medical treatments, consider avoiding allergens and making lifestyle changes. Over-the-counter treatments like nasal decongestant sprays and non-prescription antihistamines may also be beneficial. In severe cases, your GP may recommend additional medications or immunotherapy.