Hayfever treatments - what are my options?

For hayfever sufferers, the spring and summer can be an uncomfortable time. What exactly is hayfever and how can it be treated?

Hayfever is officially known as Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis. It is an immune reaction to pollen, where the body reacts to harmless pollen molecules as if they were harmful and so releases histamine and other substances to try to eliminate them. This leads to inflammation and hayfever 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.

So how can hayfever be managed?

Avoidance

Minimising exposure can help (though we appreciate this is not always practical), for example by staying indoors and keeping windows shut, wearing sunglasses and using Vaseline around your nostrils and eyes.

Treatments from the pharmacy

Antihistamine tablets, eye drops and nasal sprays can be very effective. There are different types of antihistamines, and different strengths, so it is definitely worth trying a second type or a stronger option if the first one you try doesn't work for you. Some patients find they need to use all three - antihistamine, eye drops and nasal sprays - to keep their hayfever under control.

Treatments from a GP

If you cannot get your symptoms under control, our GPs can review your hayfever symptoms and advise on the best treatment plan for you.

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.

What about the steroid injection (Kenolog)

Kenalog, was discontinued by its manufacturer in June 2025, and is no longer available.

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