Hay fever: if you have it, you know how unpleasant it can be. It’s the same story every year. But is there anything you can do to fight hay fever without having to resort to medication? 

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Most of your friends are getting excited for the warm weather and summer months ahead: trees are flowering, flowers are blooming, and a gentle light breeze starts to blow. Meanwhile, all you see are pesky hay fever triggers. And you find yourself dreading having to put up with all of it for yet another year.  

Luckily, there are plenty of things you can do about it! This year will be different. You may already have some useful strategies, but it’s never a bad idea to add some more.  

Here's our top hay fever tips, without the need for a prescription.

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How to deal with hay fever without medication

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1. Avoid going outside on high pollen days  

Staying indoors whenever possible on high pollen count days is always a good idea for combating hay fever. It’s easy to monitor pollen forecasts using a tool such as this handy tracker from the Met Office.

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2. Apply an effective allergen barrier balm around your nostrils 

You’ve probably heard of or seen people use Vaseline for this purpose. That doesn’t sound all that appealing to the pharmacy team at Phlo. Instead, why not go for a specialised, yet non-prescription, product such as Haymax? These are generally inexpensive and can be found in most shops.  

Pollen barriers are designed to trap allergens at the nostrils, and are effective for fighting hay fever. Simply apply a small amount at the bottom of the nostrils before going out, and you’re good to go. 

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3. Wear wraparound sunglasses to prevent pollen from getting into your eyes  

If you’ve been flirting with the idea of complimenting your look with some new eyewear, then this is your chance. Wraparound sunglasses are excellent for preventing pollen from getting into your eyes. And there you go; you’ve successfully combined style with functionality!  

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4. Shower and change your clothes after you get home  

This is a useful habit to get into if you find yourself going outside on high pollen days. While it may seem like a nuisance at first, think about it this way: you get an excuse to take an extra refreshing shower and change into a fresh set of clothes. Sounds much better this way, doesn’t it 

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5. Don’t dry your clothes outside- especially not when pollen counts are high  

This one is self-explanatory. Getting a clothes dryer or clothes rack can help make things more convenient and will also help you fight your hay fever. Sounds like a good investment.  

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6. Consider medication  

If you’re still struggling to keep your symptoms at bay, then it’s time to consider some form of medication. Treatments for hay fever such as antihistamine drops, tablets or nasal sprays can help ease your symptoms. Newer antihistamines are generally more effective and don’t come with the dreaded antihistamine drowsiness.  

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Quick hay fever tips: 

• Wash your hands and face regularly  
• Keep your window closed as much as possible  
• Vacuum regularly and dust your flat with a damp cloth  
• Buy a pollen filter for the air vents in your car and a vacuum cleaner with a special HEPA filter 

Further support  

For more information on the steps you can take to reduce the impact of hay fever checkout these useful resources by the NHS and Allergy UK.

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Please get in touch with us today if you would like to speak to one of our pharmacists.