Increased symptoms of Hay fever

[Dr Helen Brough]

Dear Dee,

It may be that you were previously only allergic to grass pollen (symptoms usually from May until July/August) and now you have become allergic to tree pollen (symptoms Feb/March to May). You must have other allergies to perennial allergens such as house dust mite or pets (that you own) if you are having symptoms all year round.

I would certainly take a nasal steroid spray for your symptoms. Flixonase nasal spray can be bought over the counter. Other nasal sprays such as Nasonex and Avamys can be prescribed by your doctor. There are various eye drops that can be used. I would make sure you are taking a long-acting non-sedating antihistamine like Cetirizine (e.g. Zirtek/Piriteze) or Loratidine (e.g. Clarytin). These can be be bought in any pharmacy and most big supermarkets and can also be bought without brand names (usually cheaper this way too). Don't take regular Piriton. In future is may be worthwhile starting the medication a few weeks before the season starts so as to be on top of things. This usually makes a big difference.

Best wishes,