Hay fever and allergies

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic condition caused by sensitivity to airborne allergens such as pollen. It can affect the nose, eyes, throat, and skin, and symptoms often worsen during spring and summer.

This page explains common allergy symptoms, how hay fever is assessed, treatment options, and when to seek GP advice.

These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help with skin concerns, please book an appointment. We also offer specialist GP dermatology input at the Skin Clinic.

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Symptoms of hay fever and allergies

Symptoms can vary between individuals and may include:

Sneezing and a runny or blocked nose
Itchy nose, throat, or ears
Red, itchy, or watery eyes
Facial pressure or sinus discomfort
Fatigue or poor sleep
Worsening of skin conditions such as eczema or hives

Symptoms may be mild or severe and can significantly affect daily life.

Severe symptoms: seek urgent medical help

Seek urgent medical advice if you develop:

Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
Chest tightness or severe shortness of breath
Dizziness, collapse, or fainting

These symptoms may indicate a severe allergic reaction and require immediate assessment.

Common causes and triggers

Hay fever occurs when the immune system overreacts to allergens in the air. Common triggers include:

Tree, grass, or weed pollen
House dust mites
Animal dander
Mould spores

Symptoms often worsen on high pollen days, in warm or windy weather, or after outdoor exposure.

How a GP assesses hay fever and allergies

A GP will usually diagnose hay fever based on symptoms and timing. During an assessment, they may ask about:

Seasonal pattern of symptoms
Eye, skin, or breathing symptoms
Impact on sleep or work
Treatments already tried
History of asthma, eczema, or other allergies

Photographs may help if skin symptoms are present.

Investigations

Most people with hay fever do not need investigations.

Allergy testing or blood tests may be considered if symptoms are severe, persistent, or not responding to standard treatment.

Self care and lifestyle measures

Self care can help reduce symptoms:

Check pollen forecasts and limit outdoor exposure when levels are high
Shower and change clothes after being outdoors
Keep windows closed during peak pollen times
Use sunglasses to reduce pollen contact with the eyes
Avoid drying clothes outside during high pollen days

Simple measures can make a noticeable difference.

Medical treatments a GP may recommend

Depending on symptoms, a GP may recommend:

Antihistamines
Steroid nasal sprays
Eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis
Treatment for associated skin flare ups
Review of asthma symptoms if present

Treatment is tailored to symptom severity and response.

Are steroid injections for hay fever safe?

Some people ask about steroid injections, such as Kenalog, to treat hay fever symptoms.

While these injections may reduce symptoms for a period of time, they are not routinely recommended for hay fever due to the risk of side effects. Steroid injections deliver a high dose of steroid into the body, which can affect multiple systems, not just allergy symptoms.

Potential risks may include:

Suppression of the immune system
Changes in blood sugar levels
Weight gain and fluid retention
Mood changes
Increased risk of infection
Thinning of bones or skin with repeated use

Because of these risks, steroid injections are generally not considered first line or routine treatment for hay fever in the UK. Safer and more targeted treatments are usually effective for most people.

For most patients, the potential risks of steroid injections outweigh the benefits when safer treatment options are available.

A GP can help assess symptoms and recommend appropriate alternatives based on individual circumstances.