Back to Hay Fever Treatments

Getting Relief

Start managing your hay fever symptoms with the right approach

Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) affects around 1 in 5 people in the UK. The tree pollen season typically runs from late March to mid-May, grass pollen from mid-May to July, and weed pollen from June to September. Over-the-counter antihistamines like cetirizine and loratadine are an effective first step for managing mild to moderate symptoms.

Identify Your Triggers

Different pollens peak at different times. Track your symptoms against the Met Office pollen forecast to identify whether tree, grass, or weed pollen affects you most.

Non-Drowsy Options

Cetirizine and loratadine are second-generation antihistamines that cause less drowsiness than older options like chlorphenamine. Loratadine is generally considered the least sedating of the two.

Timing Matters

Take your antihistamine before symptoms start for best results. If you know your pollen season, begin taking tablets a week or two before it typically begins.

Quick tips

  • Check the daily pollen count on the Met Office website before heading outdoors.
  • Shower and change clothes after spending time outside during high pollen days.
  • Keep windows closed during peak pollen hours, typically late morning to early evening.
  • Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors to reduce pollen contact with your eyes.

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