Antihistamines
Antihistamine tablets ease sneezing, itching and a runny nose. Choose a non-drowsy one, such as cetirizine, loratadine or fexofenadine. Some older antihistamines cause drowsiness.
Steroid nasal sprays
Sprays such as beclometasone, fluticasone or mometasone reduce swelling in your nose. They are the most effective treatment for a blocked nose. Use them every day in your hay fever season. Aim the spray slightly away from the middle of your nose.
Eye drops
Drops such as sodium cromoglicate can ease itchy, watery eyes.
If these do not work
Your GP may:
- prescribe a stronger steroid spray, or a spray that combines a steroid and an antihistamine
- refer you to a specialist for immunotherapy, where you are given small amounts of pollen over several years to build up tolerance. It is only for severe hay fever that has not responded to other treatment
Steroid injections are not recommended for hay fever.
Common questions
When should I start my hay fever medicine?
Steroid nose sprays work best if you start them 2 weeks before your usual hay fever season, and use them every day.
Sources we used
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