Hay Fever Treatments

Prevention

• If possible, prevention is the best treatment
• Prevention is not always possible or realistic depending on the type of allergy you have
• Airborne allergens like pollen are particularly difficult to avoid
• Understand the allergens that trigger hayfever symptoms
• If possible, stay indoors as much as possible when the pollen levels are high
• Pollen is highest during the morning in the fall, and during the evening in the spring
• Keep the windows in the house and car closed
• Turn on the air conditioner

Home Treatments

• Over the counter antihistamines to relieve typical symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes
• Over the counter decongestants can help relieve a stuffy nose
• Non-steroid anti-inflammatory nasal sprays can be used as a prophylactic if used before being exposed to allergens
• Gargling with salt water can soothe a sore throat

Medical Treatments

• Generally reserved for patients with severe symptoms or patients with asthma
• Allergy shots can relieve the symptoms of pollen allergy
• An allergist can help to identify your allergen