Hay fever/Allergies

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic reaction to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mould spores. It typically causes symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny or blocked nose, watery eyes, and nasal congestion. Hay fever symptoms can vary in severity and may occur seasonally or year-round, depending on the allergen triggers.

Hay fever is a chronic condition, and currently, there is no cure. However, symptoms can often be effectively managed with treatment and avoidance of allergen triggers. Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of life. While complete resolution of hay fever may not always be possible, many individuals find significant relief from symptoms with appropriate management strategies.

Yes, there are several natural approaches that can help manage hay fever symptoms and reduce the impact of allergen exposure. These include avoiding allergen triggers whenever possible, such as staying indoors during high pollen counts, keeping windows closed, using air purifiers or HEPA filters, and regularly cleaning bedding and upholstered furniture to minimise dust mites. Nasal saline irrigation, steam inhalation, and herbal supplements such as butterbur or quercetin may also provide relief for some individuals. It is important to note that you should always consult with your doctor to ensure that natural treatments are safe and suitable for your condition.

Hay fever treatment typically involves a combination of medications, allergen avoidance strategies, and lifestyle modifications aimed at reducing symptoms and improving quality of life. Medications may include antihistamines to block the effects of histamine released during allergic reactions, nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, decongestants to relieve nasal congestion, or allergy shots (immunotherapy) to desensitise the immune system to specific allergens.

Hay fever treatments come in various forms, including oral medications, nasal sprays, eye drops, and allergy shots. Oral medications such as antihistamines or decongestants are commonly used to relieve hay fever symptoms. Nasal corticosteroid sprays are effective at reducing nasal inflammation and congestion. Eye drops containing antihistamines or mast cell stabilisers can help relieve itchy, watery eyes. Allergy shots involve regular injections of allergens to gradually desensitise the immune system and reduce allergic reactions.

Some hay fever medications are available over the counter, while others require a prescription from a healthcare provider. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider for advice on whether a medication is suitable for you. Please note that at EU Meds, all requests for the supply of prescription medications are subject to an online clinical consultation, and the decision to prescribe will be made by a doctor.