Hay fever season hits hard in the UK between late March and September, with grass pollen typically peaking in June and July. If your eyes are streaming and your nose won't stop running, here's how to take back control.
Start treatment early
The single biggest mistake is waiting until symptoms are bad. A daily non-drowsy antihistamine (loratadine or cetirizine) works best when started a week or two before your worst weeks. Both are available without prescription — pop in and we'll match you to the right one.
Layer your defences
- Steroid nasal spray (fluticasone, beclometasone) — the most effective single treatment for blocked nose and sneezing. Takes 1–2 weeks to reach full effect.
- Eye drops (sodium cromoglicate) — for itchy, watery eyes that antihistamine tablets don't fully fix.
- HEPA filter at home — pulls airborne pollen out of indoor air. Underrated.
When to come and see us
If over-the-counter combinations aren't cutting it, the NHS Pharmacy First scheme lets us assess and prescribe stronger options — no GP appointment needed. We can also rule out anything else masquerading as hay fever (sinusitis, non-allergic rhinitis).
Quick tip: a saline rinse before bed clears the day's pollen out of your nose and helps you sleep through the night.
