Fast & Effective Allergy & Hay Fever Relief Online

What are allergies & hay fever?

Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to harmless substances like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is a specific type of allergy triggered by pollen, typically peaking in spring and summer, and causes nasal, eye, and throat symptoms.

In all allergies, your body releases chemicals such as histamine, leading to sneezing, itching, and inflammation — but with the right treatments, you can stay comfortable and active.

Common causes & triggers of allergies

The most common triggers include:

• Pollen (hay fever): Grass, tree, and weed pollen.

• Airborne allergens: Dust mites, pet dander, mould.

• Foods: Nuts, shellfish, eggs, milk.

• Insect stings: Bees, wasps.

• Medications: Certain antibiotics or painkillers.

Knowing your triggers helps you choose the right treatment and avoid unnecessary discomfort.

Allergy & hay fever symptoms to watch For

Symptoms vary depending on your allergy but often include:

• Sneezing, runny or blocked nose

• Itchy, watery, or red eyes

• Coughing or throat irritation

• Rashes or hives

• Swelling of lips, face, or throat

Severe reactions (anaphylaxis) can cause breathing difficulties, dizziness, or loss of consciousness. Use an EpiPen immediately and seek emergency medical help if these occur.

How are allergies & hay fever diagnosed?

To identify your allergy triggers, doctors may:

• Review your medical history and symptoms

• Perform skin prick tests to check reactions to common allergens

• Conduct blood tests for allergy-specific antibodies

• Recommend keeping a symptom diary to spot patterns

This helps determine if your allergies are seasonal (hay fever) or year-round.

Lifestyle tips for managing allergies & hay fever

Reduce symptoms by:

• Keeping windows closed during high pollen times

• Showering and changing clothes after being outside

• Using air purifiers and changing filters regularly

• Wearing sunglasses outdoors to shield eyes from pollen

• Washing bedding frequently and vacuuming with a HEPA filter

When should I see a doctor?

Seek professional help if you:

• Have symptoms that don’t improve with over-the-counter options

• Experience severe reactions, such as difficulty breathing or facial swelling

• Need stronger prescription treatments for hay fever, like fexofenadine (Telfast) or corticosteroid nasal sprays

• Suspect you may need an EpiPen for severe allergies

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between allergies and hay fever?

Hay fever is an allergy specifically caused by pollen, leading to nasal and eye symptoms. Other allergies can result from foods, dust, animals, or insect stings.

Can antihistamines help with hay fever?

Yes — daily antihistamines like cetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine are first-line treatments for hay fever.

Do I need a prescription for hay fever treatments?

Some effective treatments, such as fexofenadine or certain nasal sprays, require a prescription, which you can obtain through our online consultation.

Is hay fever dangerous?

While hay fever itself isn’t life-threatening, it can severely affect quality of life. If symptoms worsen or cause difficulty breathing, seek medical help.