Hay fever is one of the most common allergies in the UK. It happens when your body reacts to pollen from trees, grass or weeds, and it's usually worst from late March to September, when pollen counts are highest.

Common signs of hay fever

  • Sneezing and coughing
  • A runny or blocked nose
  • Itchy, red or watery eyes
  • An itchy throat, mouth, nose or ears
  • Feeling tired

If you have asthma, hay fever can also make you feel wheezy or tight-chested.

Simple things that can help

The NHS suggests a few easy habits to reduce how much pollen you come into contact with:

  • Put a little petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) around your nostrils to trap pollen
  • Wear wraparound sunglasses, a mask or a wide-brimmed hat when you're outside
  • Shower and change your clothes after you've been outdoors
  • Keep windows and doors shut as much as you can
  • Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth
  • Use a pollen filter in your car's air vents, and a HEPA filter in your vacuum if you have one

Things to avoid on high-pollen days

  • Cutting or walking on grass
  • Drying clothes outside, where they can catch pollen
  • Keeping fresh flowers indoors
  • Smoking, or being around smoke, which can make symptoms worse

Your pharmacist can help

For most people, hay fever can be managed with help from a pharmacist. They can suggest suitable treatments such as antihistamine tablets, eye drops or nasal sprays, and steroid nasal sprays. If you need to stay alert, ask about non-drowsy options.

When to see a GP

Book a GP appointment if your symptoms are getting worse, or if they don't improve after trying pharmacy treatments.

Supplements are not a treatment for hay fever. If your symptoms are bothering you, a pharmacist is the best first stop.

You can read the full advice on the NHS hay fever page.