What is Hay Fever?

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic reaction to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. It affects millions of people every year, causing symptoms that can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life. While hay fever is not harmful, it can significantly impact your quality of life, especially during peak allergy seasons.

Symptoms of Hay Fever

Hay fever symptoms can vary in severity and may include:

• Sneezing
• Runny or blocked nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Itchy throat, mouth, nose, and ears
• Coughing
• Postnasal drip (mucus running down the back of the throat)
• Fatigue and difficulty sleeping (due to congestion and irritation)

These symptoms can be mistaken for a cold, but unlike a cold, hay fever is triggered by allergens and does not involve a virus.

Causes of Hay Fever

Hay fever occurs when the immune system overreacts to allergens, releasing chemicals like histamine that cause inflammation and irritation. Common triggers include:

• Pollen: From trees, grasses, and weeds, typically worse in spring and summer.
• Dust Mites: Tiny insects found in household dust.
• Pet Dander: Skin flakes from cats, dogs, and other animals.
• Mould Spores: Found in damp or humid environments.
• Air Pollution & Smoke: Can exacerbate symptoms.

When is Hay Fever Season in the UK?

• Tree pollen: February to June
• Grass pollen: May to July (most common trigger)
• Weed pollen: June to September

Understanding your specific triggers can help you manage symptoms more effectively.

Treatment & Relief for Hay Fever

While hay fever cannot be cured, there are several ways to manage symptoms effectively:

1. Avoiding Triggers

• Stay indoors during peak pollen times (early morning and late evening).
• Keep windows closed and use air purifiers.
• Shower and change clothes after being outside to remove pollen.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from airborne allergens.

2. Over-the-Counter Medications

• Antihistamines: Help reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine, fexofenadine).
• Nasal Sprays: Steroid nasal sprays (e.g., fluticasone, mometasone) reduce inflammation and congestion.
• Eye Drops: Can help relieve itchy and watery eyes.

3. Prescription Treatments

For severe hay fever that does not respond to over-the-counter treatments, a doctor may prescribe:

• Stronger antihistamines or nasal sprays.
• Montelukast (a medication that reduces allergic inflammation).
• Immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets) to desensitise the immune system over time.

When to See a Doctor

If your symptoms are severe, persistent, or interfering with your daily life, it may be time to see a GP. At Dr. Dropin, we offer same-day appointments with experienced doctors who can provide tailored advice and treatment options to help you manage hay fever effectively.

Book an Appointment at Dr. Dropin

Don’t let hay fever ruin your day. At Dr. Dropin, we provide quick access to expert medical care, with no long waits. Book a same-day appointment at our Fulham clinic or online today to find the right treatment for you.

FAQs About Hay Fever

Can hay fever cause fever?
No, hay fever does not cause a fever. If you have a high temperature, it may be a sign of an infection rather than allergies.

Is hay fever worse in the morning?
Yes, pollen levels are usually highest in the early morning and late evening, making symptoms worse during these times.

Can I develop hay fever later in life?
Yes, while hay fever often starts in childhood, it can develop at any age.

What’s the difference between hay fever and a cold?
Colds are caused by viruses and usually include fever and body aches, whereas hay fever is triggered by allergens and does not cause a fever.

Need Fast Relief?

Visit Dr. Dropin
Book a same-day appointment today and get expert advice on managing hay fever effectively.