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Hayfever
Hayfever affects many people, especially during the spring and summer months, and can have a significant impact on daily life. At The Maxwell Practice, our experienced GPs can assess your symptoms and create a tailored treatment plan to help you manage your hayfever more effectively.
What is hayfever?
Hayfever, or Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis, is caused by an allergic reaction to pollen. When pollen particles are inhaled, the immune system mistakenly identifies them as harmful, triggering the release of histamine and other chemicals. This results in inflammation and a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
Symptoms of hayfever include sneezing, coughing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy watery eyes, an irritated throat, mouth, nose, eyes, or ears, headaches, fatigue, wheezing and chest tightness.
Hayfever treatments
There are several treatment options available, and our GPs can help you find what works best for your individual needs:
Antihistamine Tablets
Antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamine, helping to relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose. These are available in different strengths and formulations—some over the counter, others by prescription. It may take a bit of trial and error to find the one that works best for you.
Eye Drops
Antihistamine or mast cell stabiliser eye drops can help relieve itchy, red, or watery eyes. These come in various formats and can be particularly helpful for those whose hayfever symptoms are mainly eye-related.
Nasal Sprays
Steroid or antihistamine nasal sprays can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, easing congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. They are often most effective when used regularly throughout the allergy season.
Steroids
For adults with severe hayfever symptoms that have not responded to other treatments, a GP may consider prescribing a short course of oral steroid tablets. This can provide rapid, short-term relief and may be appropriate when symptoms are particularly severe or during important events such as examinations, weddings or sporting competitions. Oral steroids are not suitable for everyone and your GP will assess your individual circumstances and discuss the potential benefits and risks before deciding whether this is an appropriate option.
Please note: We do not offer the Kenalog steroid injection - it is no longer available in the UK.