What it is
There is no cure, but antihistamines, steroid nasal sprays and eye drops can ease symptoms. Keeping windows closed and showering after being outside can help.
For severe hay fever, immunotherapy may be offered by a specialist.
Common signs
- Sneezing
- Runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, red or watery eyes
- Itchy throat, mouth, nose or ears
- Tiredness
- Worse asthma symptoms
How it is usually diagnosed
- Questions about symptoms and when they happen
- Skin prick or blood tests, sometimes
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Allergy test results
- Medicines that have worked
- Notes on which months are worst
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which medicine should I try first?
- Could I benefit from immunotherapy?
- How can I keep my asthma under control in pollen season?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Wheezing or breathlessness that does not improve with your inhaler: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.