Hay fever treatment combines reducing your exposure to allergens with medication. Practical steps include checking the daily pollen forecast, keeping windows closed during peak times, wearing wraparound sunglasses, applying a small amount of barrier balm around the nostrils, changing clothes and showering after being outdoors, and avoiding drying laundry outside when pollen is high.
Common medicines available over the counter include non-drowsy antihistamine tablets, steroid nasal sprays that reduce inflammation in the nose, and antihistamine eye drops for itchy, watery eyes. Steroid sprays work best when started before the season and used regularly rather than only on bad days. A pharmacist can match a product to your symptoms and check it is suitable for you.
See a doctor if your symptoms are not controlled with pharmacy treatments, if they are interfering with sleep, work, or school, or if you also have asthma that flares with pollen. For persistent or severe hay fever, a doctor may discuss prescription options or referral for allergy treatment such as immunotherapy. Always follow the dosing instructions on the packaging or from your pharmacist.