Hay Fever Treatment
You can schedule an appointment for our Hay Fever Treatment, and we offer next-day appointments for your convenience at one of our branches
Hay Fever TreatmentNext-day appointments available
Book an appointment at one of our branches for next-day service.
Understanding Hay Fever
Hay fever is a prevalent seasonal allergy that affects millions of people in the United Kingdom every year. It is triggered when pollen from grass, trees, and other plants is released into the air and inhaled by individuals who are allergic to these pollens. If left untreated, hay fever can significantly disrupt daily life and potentially lead to more severe health conditions.
In the UK, the hay fever season typically commences in late March or early April, with high grass pollen counts typically lasting until mid-July. Tree pollen then dominates from July to September, while weed pollen season peaks during August and September. Some individuals may experience symptoms year-round due to exposure to molds or dust mites in their home or workplace environment.
Causes of Hay Fever
The precise cause of hay fever remains unknown, but certain factors increase the risk of developing it. These factors include having a family history of allergies or asthma, childhood exposure to pollutants or smoking, and residing in areas with high pollution levels or tree planting activities, such as roadsides or public parks.
The most common allergens responsible for hay fever in the UK are tree pollen (from oak, birch, and hazel trees), grass pollen (from rye, timothy, and couch grass), and weed pollen (from plantain and nettle). The amount of pollen in the air can vary significantly from season to season, depending on weather conditions. Warmer weather often results in higher pollen levels, leading to more severe symptoms in hay fever sufferers.
Although hay fever can be uncomfortable and debilitating for some, numerous treatments are available to alleviate its symptoms.
Available treatment options
In the UK, there are various treatment options for hay fever sufferers. The most important of these is avoidance, which involves measures such as keeping windows closed during high pollen periods, wearing sunglasses outdoors on windy days, showering after outdoor activities, and avoiding certain outdoor activities like lawn mowing or gardening when pollen counts are high.
Over-the-counter medications are another way to alleviate hay fever symptoms. Common drugs used to treat hay fever in the UK include antihistamines (which block histamine action), decongestants, nasal sprays, and corticosteroid tablets. For those with severe symptoms unresponsive to traditional medicines, our prescribers may offer alternative treatments following a consultation.
Natural remedies for hay fever are also gaining popularity among UK sufferers who prefer to avoid chemical medications. These remedies include dietary supplements like quercetin (a natural antihistamine) and vitamins C and E (potent antioxidants), as well as herbal teas containing ingredients such as nettle leaf extract, chamomile flower extract, and ginger root powder, which can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritation associated with hay fever symptoms.
While multiple options are available for treating hay fever in the UK, treatment decisions made through our service are the result of joint consideration between the prescriber and the patient during a consultation. Price is not the sole determining factor.
How Our Service Works
- Book an appointment for a consultation with one of our prescribers.
- Complete the patient questionnaire via the link in your booking confirmation email (at least 12 hours before your appointment).
- A prescriber will review the completed questionnaire and contact you to discuss your condition.
- During the consultation, you and the prescriber will decide on the most suitable treatment option for you.
- If appropriate, the prescriber will issue a prescription and arrange for your preferred Midway Pharmacy branch to dispense the treatment.
- Payment for the prescribed medication will be required. The cost will be communicated before prescribing, and payment will be processed accordingly.
