Nasal sprays can be highly effective for hay fever, particularly when nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose are your main symptoms. The NHS recommends steroid nasal sprays as a first-line treatment for moderate to severe hay fever, either alone or alongside antihistamine tablets.
Types of Nasal Spray Available in the UK
Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays
These are the most effective nasal sprays for hay fever. They reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and take 1–2 weeks of regular use to reach full effect. Common options include:
- Beclometasone (Beconase) — available over the counter, widely used and affordable
- Fluticasone propionate (Flixonase, Pirinase) — available OTC, slightly more potent than beclometasone
- Mometasone furoate (Nasonex) — prescription only, often considered the gold standard for nasal allergy relief
- Fluticasone furoate (Avamys) — prescription only, newer formulation with good patient satisfaction
Antihistamine Nasal Sprays
Azelastine (Rhinolast) is the main antihistamine nasal spray available in the UK on prescription. It works within 15 minutes and is useful for rapid relief. Some combination sprays, such as Dymista, pair azelastine with fluticasone for dual-action relief.
Saline Nasal Sprays
Saline sprays like Sterimar contain no active medication. They work by rinsing pollen and irritants from the nasal passages. While not as powerful as steroid sprays, they are safe for daily use, suitable during pregnancy, and can complement other treatments.
How to Use a Nasal Spray Properly
Incorrect technique is one of the most common reasons nasal sprays fail to work. Follow these steps for best results:
- Shake the bottle gently before use
- Blow your nose to clear the nostrils
- Tilt your head slightly forward — not backward
- Aim the nozzle slightly away from the nasal septum (the central wall)
- Spray while breathing in gently through your nose
- Avoid sniffing hard, as this pulls the medication past the nose into the throat
Which Nasal Spray Is Right for You?
For most people with moderate hay fever, an over-the-counter steroid spray like Beconase or Pirinase is a good starting point. If symptoms persist despite this and an oral antihistamine, ask your GP about prescription options such as mometasone or Dymista. Saline sprays are an excellent add-on for anyone seeking drug-free symptom relief.