Hayfever treatment

What is Hay Fever?

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an overreaction of your immune system to pollen. While pollen is generally harmless, some individuals have a heightened immune response to it, causing a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Common signs of hay fever include itchiness in the nose and eyes, a runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion.

The duration of hay fever symptoms within Glasgow normally runs from April to September.  The exact timeframe varies based on factors such as climate, local vegetation, and individual sensitivities to different types of pollen.

During this period, pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds is released into the air, triggering hay fever symptoms in susceptible individuals. As the pollen count increases, so does the likelihood of experiencing these symptoms. Taking preventative measures and seeking appropriate treatments can help you manage hay fever and minimise its impact on your daily life.

Hayfever Medication

Antihistamines:
A popular solution for hay fever symptoms, antihistamines work by blocking the release of histamines in your body. Choose from non-drowsy options such as Loratadine and Cetirizine for daytime relief, or drowsy alternatives like Chlorpheniramine and Diphenhydramine for a symptom-free night’s sleep. Remember to start taking these 2-3 weeks before the pollen season for the best results.

Nasal Sprays:
Combat nasal congestion with consistent use of nasal sprays. Keep in mind that they may take some time to show their full effect, so use them regularly and be patient.

Eye Drops:
Soothe itchy, dry, or irritated eyes with eye drops. Carry a bottle with you for on-the-go relief, ensuring that you can enjoy your day without the distraction of eye discomfort.

Prescribed Treatments:
If over-the-counter options aren’t doing the trick, consider scheduling a consultation with one of our medical professionals. They can prescribe higher dose antihistamines, combination nasal sprays, or prescribed eye drops to better control your symptoms.

Steroid Injections:
For those who have tried everything else, including prescribed medication, steroid injections may provide the relief you need. Our medical professionals can evaluate your symptoms and advise on the best treatment plan for you.

More about the Steroid Injection / Hay Fever Shot

Understanding the Steroid Injection / Hay Fever Shot
The hay fever shot, a steroid injection, offers a potential solution for those suffering from severe hay fever symptoms. If other treatments such as oral antihistamines and eye drops haven’t provided adequate relief, this injection may be the answer for you. However, it’s important to consult with one of our medical professionals to determine if this is the right option for your needs.

How Does It Work?
During your consultation, our medical professional will explain the benefits and potential side effects of the hay fever shot. They will then assess your condition to ensure that a steroid injection is the most appropriate treatment for you, or whether alternative treatments may be more suitable.

If the hay fever shot is determined to be the best course of action, the correct dosage will be calculated based on your body weight. The steroid used in the injection is a corticosteroid, commonly known as kenalog or Triamcinolone.  The recommended dosage is limited to 1 mg/kg with a maximum single does of 40mg administered.. Administration is by intramuscular injection to the buttock and the effects typically begin within one to 48 hours.

The Benefits:
A single dose may be enough to reduce symptoms for the entire season (up to three months)
Cost-effective compared to the ongoing expense of over-the-counter treatments and methods
The fexofenadine injection bypasses the digestive system and liver, potentially reducing the risk of side effects

The side effects:
There is potential side effects, and we ask that you take a few moments to read through the patient information document for the steroid injection which can be found here:

The injection is strictly for those with the most severe symptoms who have previously used over the counter or prescribed medication. We will refuse to administer the injection if it is not used as a last resort or you have a medical condition which could be exacerbated by a steroid injection.