Treating Hay Fever
There are a variety of treatments for hay fever. Finding which works best for you will ensure you have a better quality of life.
Antihistamines
Histamine is a chemical released by your body after it's been exposed to a trigger such as pollen. It then produces symptoms of hay fever such as sneezing or itchy, watery eyes.
Antihistamines block the action of histamine in the body. This then reduces the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Older-style sedating antihistamines, such as Piriton (Chlorpheneramine), are taken three or four times a day and can make you drowsy. Non-sedating antihistamines, such as loratadine (Clarityn) or cetirizine (Zirtek), are only taken once a day and don't cause drowsiness. Different people find different brands work best for them. You should always ask your pharmacist advice, for which one is suitable for you. Always ask for a generic brand, as this can bring some savings for your pocket too!
As well as tablets, antihistamines are available as nasal sprays, eye drops or liquids to be swallowed. Most are available as over-the-counter drugs.
Steroid Nasal Sprays
Steroid nasal sprays are more effective than antihistamines at treating some symptoms of hayfever, such as a blocked nose.
They are a local treatment (applied in the nose) and hardly any of the steroid is absorbed by the body. There are almost no side effects with a normal dose. You can use steroid nasal sprays for long periods of time without any risk.
They take several days to act and need be taken continually for several weeks as their effect builds up with time.
If you have other symptoms as well, steroid nasal sprays can be used in addition to other treatments for itchy and watery eyes.
Cromoglycates
Cromoglycates are not antihistamines. They are mainly available as eye drops but you can also get them as nasal sprays. If antihistamines aren’t working on their own, you can use cromoglycates as well.
This medication has few side effects and works on specific areas such as the nose or eyes.
Alternative Medicine
Although there is little evidence-based research in this area, some people believe these therapies work for them.
Butterbur, also known as ‘bog rhubarb’, is a herbal remedy that is believed to have the same effect as an antihistamine but without causing drowsiness.
Echinacea, usually used to treat colds, is said to reduce a person's sensitivity to allergens.
Euphrasia is sometimes used for symptoms of hayfever such as watery or itchy eyes.