Allergy & Hayfever

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What Are Allergies and Hayfever? Hayfever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is one of the most common allergic conditions in the UK, affecting around one in five people at some point in their lives. It occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as pollen, causing a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Allergy relief tablets and other hayfever treatments are among the most frequently purchased medicines over the counter in the UK. Understanding your triggers is the first step to managing symptoms effectively. Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis Seasonal hayfever is triggered by outdoor allergens — most commonly tree pollen in spring, grass pollen in early summer, and weed pollen in late summer. Symptoms tend to appear at specific times of year and can vary in severity depending on pollen counts in your area. Perennial Allergic Rhinitis Perennial allergic rhinitis occurs year-round and is typically caused by indoor allergens such as house dust mites, pet dander, or mould spores. People with perennial rhinitis may benefit from longer-term antihistamine tablets or a prescribed nasal corticosteroid spray. What Are the Symptoms of Hayfever and Allergies? Hayfever symptoms are caused by the release of histamine in the body following exposure to allergens. Symptoms can range from mildly inconvenient to significantly disruptive to daily life. Recognising your symptoms early allows you to start the right hayfever treatment before they worsen. Frequent sneezing, particularly in the morning or outdoors A runny or congested nose Itchy, red, or watery eyes (allergic conjunctivitis) An itchy throat, mouth, or ears Fatigue caused by disturbed sleep or constant symptoms Worsening asthma symptoms in those with both conditions How Do Hayfever and Allergy Treatments Work? Most allergy relief tablets and hayfever medicines work by blocking the action of histamine — the chemical released by the immune system in response to allergens. By reducing histamine activity, these medi