Hayfever

Hay Fever & Allergy Relief in Neath – Free NHS Advice & Treatment

BOOK AN NHS COMMON AILMENT APPOINTMENT FOR HAY FEVER RELIEF

Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is a common allergy that causes sneezing, a blocked or runny nose, itchy eyes and general discomfort. It’s triggered by pollen, dust mites, animal dander or other airborne allergens. At The Health Dispensary and Neath Pharmacy, our pharmacists can offer expert advice and NHS-funded treatments for eligible patients.

What Are the Symptoms?

Hay fever and allergic rhinitis symptoms usually affect both sides of the nose and develop quickly after allergen exposure. They may include:

• Sneezing and a blocked or runny nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Nasal itching or postnasal drip
• Mouth breathing or snoring due to congestion
• Cough or irritated throat
• Tiredness, poor sleep or concentration issues

Treatment Options

Depending on your symptoms, we may recommend NHS treatment options including:
• Non-drowsy antihistamine tablets or syrup (e.g. loratadine or cetirizine)
• Antihistamine nasal spray
• Eye drops for itchy or watery eyes (e.g. sodium cromoglicate)
• Nasal corticosteroid spray for more persistent symptoms

Your pharmacist will help choose the best option depending on your symptoms and lifestyle.

When to See a GP or Optometrist

We may refer you if:
• You are under 2 years old
• Symptoms are severe, worsening, or not improving with treatment
• You experience fever, facial pain, or persistent nosebleeds
• There’s visual disturbance or eye pain (you may be referred to an optometrist or eye specialist)

Self-Care and Prevention Tips

You can reduce exposure to allergens and relieve symptoms by:
• Wearing wraparound sunglasses outdoors
• Keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons
• Washing your hands, face, and clothes after being outside
• Using synthetic bedding and washing it regularly at 60°C
• Dusting with a damp cloth and using HEPA-filter vacuums
• Keeping pets out of bedrooms and washing them regularly

To use nasal sprays correctly:
• Shake the bottle and tilt your head slightly down
• Aim the spray away from the nasal septum
• Breathe in gently while spraying — do not sniff hard
• Switch hands to spray the other nostril

You can find more advice at: https://www.allergyuk.org/types-of-allergies/hayfever/

Book an Appointment

Appointments are quick and discreet. Book online or visit our pharmacy in Neath. If you’re not eligible for NHS treatment, we may be able to support you privately — just ask.

FAQs about Hay Fever

Q: What’s the difference between hay fever and a cold?
A: Hay fever tends to last longer and doesn’t cause a fever. Symptoms come and go depending on exposure to allergens.

Q: Can I take hay fever medicine every day?
A: Yes — many treatments are safe for regular use during your allergy season. We’ll advise what’s best for you.

Q: Do antihistamines make you drowsy?
A: Some older ones do, but we’ll usually recommend non-drowsy options.

Q: What if treatments don’t work?
A: If symptoms are persistent or severe, we may refer you to your GP for allergy testing or further support.