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Hay Fever Treatment: Feel Your Best This Allergy Season

The months between March and September can be difficult for those of us living with hay fever. With pollen counts rising, it’s important to understand what hay fever is, how it affects you and what treatments and strategies can help you feel your best.

At Cyncoed Pharmacy, we’re here to guide you through the hay fever season with practical advice and effective hay fever treatment options. You may even be eligible for free hay fever treatment under the NHS Common Ailment Scheme!

What Is Hay Fever?

Hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction triggered when your body is exposed to pollen. The three main types of pollen are:

Tree pollenTree pollen
(spring)
Grass pollenGrass pollen
(late spring to early summer)
Weed pollenWeed pollen
(early spring to late autumn)

Understanding which type of pollen triggers your symptoms can help you prepare and manage your hay fever more effectively. You can track the pollen counts in your area using a reliable pollen tracker.

How Common is Hay Fever?

Hay fever is one of the most common allergies, with a study from Allergy UK reporting that 49% of people in the UK have experienced hay fever symptoms. Many people with hay fever are also more likely to experience related conditions like asthma, eczema and food allergies.

Despite its prevalence, hay fever remains an under-recognised and poorly managed condition but with the right support and hay fever treatment, you can keep your symptoms under control.

Symptoms of Hay Fever

When your body encounters pollen, it tries to expel it from your airways leading to common symptoms such as:

  • A runny or blocked nose
  • Sneezing and coughing
  • Itchy, red or watery eyes
  • Itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears
  • Headaches and earaches
  • Fatigue and tiredness

If you have asthma, hay fever may also trigger:

  • Wheezing and coughing
  • Shortness of breath
  • A tight feeling in the chest

Unlike a cold or the flu, hay fever symptoms don’t pass within a few days. They can last for weeks or months, persisting while the triggering pollen remains in the environment.

Can You Catch Hay Fever?

No – hay fever is not contagious. It’s an allergic reaction, not an infection caused by bacteria or viruses. However, it can develop at any age, most commonly during childhood or adolescence. Y0u are more likely to develop hay fever if you have a family history of asthma, eczema or other allergies.

Hay Fever Treatment Options

While there’s no cure for hay fever, there are plenty of ways to manage symptoms effectively:

Medication

  • Intranasal steroid sprays: Start using these a few weeks before the hay fever season begins for the best results.
  • Antihistamines: Medications can help reduce sneezing, itching and runny noses.
    Tip: Avoid sedating antihistamines if you drive or work as they can cause drowsiness even if you don’t feel sleepy.

At Cyncoed Pharmacy, we can recommend the best hay fever treatment for you based on your symptoms and lifestyle.

Self Help Tips

In addition to medication, try these strategies to limit pollen exposure:

  • Stay indoors when pollen counts are high
  • Keep windows and doors closed
  • Apply a petroleum jelly around your nostrils to trap pollen
  • Shower and change clothes after being outdoors
  • Dust regularly with a damp cloth
  • Use pollen filters in your car and vacuum cleaner
  • Avoid fresh flowers inside your home
  • Avoid smoking, as it can worsen symptoms
  • Avoid drying clothes outside

Making these small changes can make a big difference in how you feel during hay fever season.

Looking For Effective Hay Fever Treatment?

Visit Cyncoed Pharmacy today and let our friendly team help you manage your symptoms. With the right support, you can enjoy the spring and summer months feeling your best.