Hay fever & allergies

Seasonal allergic rhinitis causes sneezing, itchy eyes and a blocked nose when pollen counts rise — very treatable with antihistamines and nasal sprays.

Researched & fact-checked by Kaiser Khan

Symptoms

Sneezing and runny nose
Itchy, watery eyes
Blocked nose and reduced smell
Tiredness from poor sleep

Why it happens

Immune overreaction to pollen (tree, grass or weed), dust mites or pet dander. Symptoms often peak in spring and summer in the UK.

Treatment

Antihistamine tablets, steroid nasal sprays and eye drops control most hay fever. Start treatment before your season begins for best results.

Self-care that helps

Check daily pollen forecasts; shower and change clothes after outdoor time; keep windows closed on high-count days; wraparound sunglasses outdoors.

When to get help

Asthma symptoms worsening with hay fever, or no improvement after 2 weeks of regular treatment — speak to a clinician.

See our hay fever & allergies support →

Go deeper

Related guides

Hay fever treatment UK: tablets, sprays and when to start

Best hay fever treatments in the UK — antihistamine tablets, nasal sprays and eye drops. When to start before pollen season and when to see a GP.

Available without prescription

Products that can help

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