Key Information

The Goal: While there is currently no cure for hay fever, combining different management strategies can make a huge difference and help you feel more comfortable.

Your Options: Managing hay fever effectively involves finding the right treatment approach for you, from simple self-help steps to professional medical advice.

Step 1: Self-Help (Reduce Your Exposure)

When the pollen count is high (usually on warm, dry, and windy days), try these simple things you can do yourself to fight back:

Outdoors:

• Check the daily pollen forecast and limit your time outdoors if possible.
• Consider wearing a hat with a wide brim to protect your face and eyes.

Top Tip: Dab a little petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) or a specific allergen barrier balm around your nostrils to help trap pollen before it gets into your nose.

Indoors:

• Take a shower and change your clothes as soon as you come indoors to wash off any pollen you have picked up.
• Keep windows and doors shut as much as possible.
• Avoid drying clothes outside, as pollen can easily stick to them.
• Vacuum regularly (ideally using a cleaner with a HEPA filter) and dust surfaces with a damp cloth.

Step 2: Pharmacy Treatments

If self-help steps are not providing enough relief, your local pharmacist is a fantastic resource.

• Convenience: They offer expert advice that is highly accessible without needing a prescription.
• Treatments: They can guide you through effective over-the-counter options, such as antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays.

Step 3: When to Contact the Practice

Sometimes, over-the-counter treatments might not be enough. Please contact us if your symptoms are severe and are affecting your daily life or your sleep.

How We Can Help:

• Prescription Treatments: We can consider stronger steroid nasal sprays or different types of antihistamine tablets tailored to your needs.
• Specialist Referral: If your symptoms do not respond well to these treatments, we can discuss referring you to a hospital specialist for further assessment and different treatment options.

What Happens Next?

If you have tried pharmacy treatments and your hay fever is still impacting your day-to-day life, please get in touch with us.

Discuss Your Symptoms

Further Information

Hay Fever Symptoms

For more specific information about hay fever, including current pollen forecasts and self-care advice, please visit the NHS website.

Learn more about hay fever

Last reviewed: 28 April 2026
Next review due: 28 April 2029