As the weather warms up and flowers begin to bloom, hay fever season arrives—bringing with it itchy eyes, sneezing, and congestion. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, preparing in advance can make all the difference in managing your symptoms.

At Home Ground Pharmacy in Swindon, we stock a wide range of hay fever treatments, including antihistamine eye drops, nasal sprays, and allergy relief tablets. You can also access medication through our Minor Ailment Service, saving you the hassle of a GP appointment.

To help you get ahead of the pollen count, here’s your hay fever season checklist—everything you need to keep symptoms under control.

✅ 1. Antihistamine Tablets for Everyday Relief

Antihistamines are the first line of defence against hay fever. They help block histamine, the chemical that causes allergy symptoms, reducing sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.

What to Buy:

Loratadine (non-drowsy) – Ideal for daily use without causing tiredness.

Cetirizine (non-drowsy) – Effective and long-lasting, taken once daily.

Chlorphenamine (Piriton) – Stronger relief but may cause drowsiness, useful for nighttime use.

Tip: If you struggle with persistent symptoms, start taking antihistamines a few weeks before peak pollen season for better control.

✅ 2. Antihistamine Eye Drops for Itchy, Red Eyes

Watery, irritated eyes are one of the most frustrating hay fever symptoms. Antihistamine eye drops soothe itching, redness, and swelling, providing targeted relief.

What to Buy:

Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops – Helps stabilise cells that release histamine, reducing irritation.

Ketotifen Eye Drops – Provides fast-acting antihistamine relief for severe symptoms.

Otrivine Antistin Eye Drops – Combines antihistamine and decongestant properties, reducing redness and puffiness.

Tip: Keep a bottle in your bag or car so you can relieve symptoms quickly while out and about.

✅ 3. Nasal Sprays for Blocked & Runny Noses

A blocked nose or constant sneezing can make hay fever feel like a never-ending cold. Nasal sprays reduce swelling in the nasal passages, helping you breathe more easily.

What to Buy:

Steroid Nasal Sprays (Beclometasone, Fluticasone, Mometasone) – Reduces inflammation and long-term congestion.

Antihistamine Nasal Sprays (Azelastine) – Provides quick relief from sneezing and runny noses.

Decongestant Sprays (Otrivine, Sudafed) – Clears blocked noses instantly, but should not be used for more than 3 consecutive days.

Tip: Use steroid nasal sprays daily throughout hay fever season for maximum effectiveness.

✅ 4. Barrier Balms & Filters to Stop Pollen Entry

If you suffer from severe hay fever, it helps to block pollen before it reaches your eyes and nose. Barrier products reduce pollen exposure, preventing symptoms from developing.

What to Buy:

HayMax Pollen Barrier Balm – A natural balm applied around the nostrils to trap pollen before it enters your airways.

Allergy Face Masks – Useful for outdoor activities in high-pollen areas.

Air Purifiers & Filters – Helps remove pollen from indoor air, ideal for bedrooms and living spaces.

Tip: Apply HayMax before going outside and reapply throughout the day for extra protection.

✅ 5. Allergy Relief for Skin Irritation

Some people experience itchy, irritated skin due to pollen exposure. Cooling creams and antihistamine lotions can relieve discomfort.

What to Buy:

Hydrocortisone Cream – A mild steroid cream to reduce redness and itching.

Aloe Vera Gel – Soothes hot, irritated skin caused by hay fever reactions.

Calamine Lotion – Helps calm itchy skin and rashes.

Tip: If pollen exposure causes hives, an antihistamine tablet can help reduce swelling quickly.

✅ 6. Protective Sunglasses & Hats

Wearing wraparound sunglasses and a hat can reduce pollen contact with your eyes and face, preventing irritation before it starts.

What to Buy:

Wraparound Sunglasses – Protects eyes from pollen and UV rays.

Wide-Brimmed Hat – Keeps pollen out of your hair and face.

Tip: Rinse your sunglasses regularly to remove pollen build-up throughout the day.

✅ 7. Saline Rinse & Hay Fever Wipes

Washing pollen away can drastically reduce symptoms. Saline nasal rinses and allergy wipes help clear pollen from the eyes, nose, and face.

What to Buy:

Sterimar Nasal Spray – Gently cleans the nose to remove pollen particles.

Hay Fever Face Wipes – Handy for wiping pollen off the skin when outdoors.

Tip: Use a saline rinse in the morning and evening to keep your nasal passages pollen-free.

✅ 8. Hay Fever Medication via Our Minor Ailment Service

At Home Ground Pharmacy in Swindon, you can access effective hay fever treatment without a GP appointment through our Minor Ailment Service.

If over-the-counter treatments aren’t working, you may be eligible for stronger prescription-strength antihistamines or nasal sprays through this service.

Tip: Speak to our pharmacists if your symptoms are severe or persistent, and we can recommend the best treatment options.

Be Ready for Hay Fever Season with Home Ground Pharmacy

Don’t wait until your symptoms start—stock up on antihistamine eye drops, tablets, nasal sprays, and protective measures now to stay ahead of hay fever season.

At Home Ground Pharmacy in Swindon, we have everything you need to manage hay fever effectively. Whether you need over-the-counter treatments or access to prescription medication through our Minor Ailment Service, our team is here to help.

Visit us today and get prepared for a sneeze-free season!

This blog was written on behalf of Home Ground Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.