Hay Fever Treatment and Management

Evidence-based care for lasting relief from allergic rhinitis for adults and children

We provide expert hay fever treatment for patients of all ages. Our specialist team, led by Professor Gideon Lack, combines cutting-edge research with personalised care to help both adults and children overcome their symptoms and regain their quality of life.

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What is hay fever?

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is more than just a seasonal nuisance. This inflammatory condition affects your nasal passages, sinuses, throat, and eyes, impacting nearly one-third of the UK population. For many, it can significantly affect sleep, work performance, and overall quality of life.

Understanding your symptoms

Hay fever can affect different people in different ways, with symptoms ranging from mild irritation to severe discomfort that impacts daily life. Understanding your specific symptoms helps us create the most effective treatment plan for you.
Nasal and sinus symptoms
  • Congestion and blocked nose
Clear, runny nose
  • Frequent sneezing
  • Itching in nose and throat
  • Sinus pressure
Eye symptoms
  • Itchy, watery eyes
  • Redness and swelling
  • Dark circles under eyes
  • Sensitivity to light

Impact on daily life

While often dismissed as a minor condition, hay fever can significantly affect your quality of life, impacting everything from sleep to work performance. Understanding these wider effects helps us develop a treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your life.
  • Disrupted sleep patterns
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Persistent fatigue
  • Reduced productivity
  • Irritability and discomfort
  • Social and recreational limitations

What triggers hay fever?

Hay fever symptoms can occur seasonally or throughout the year, depending on an individual's specific triggers and sensitivities.

Seasonal triggers

Trees, grasses, and weeds release pollen at different times throughout the year, causing seasonal symptoms:
Season
Triggers
Spring
(March to May)
Tree pollens are the primary trigger, particularly birch, oak, and pine
Summer
(May to July)
Grass pollen affects approximately 90% of hay fever sufferers
Late Summer/Autumn
‍(August to September)
Weed pollens become prevalent, including mugwort and nettle

Year-round triggers

Some people experience symptoms throughout the year due to:
  • House dust mites
  • Pet dander (cats, dogs, horses)
  • Mould spores
  • Indoor allergens
The severity of symptoms often correlates with the concentration of allergens in the environment, which can vary based on weather conditions, location, and time of day.

When to seek specialist care

Consider consulting our team if:
Over-the-counter treatments aren't providing adequate relief
Your symptoms significantly affect your sleep or daily activities
You experience hay fever alongside asthma
You need help identifying your specific triggers
You're looking for long-term treatment solutions
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Our approach to hay fever treatment

At LACK Clinic, we develop personalised treatment plans based on your specific triggers and symptoms:
Comprehensive assessment
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective hay fever treatment. Our specialists begin with a thorough evaluation that includes:
Detailed medical history
Advanced allergy testing
Evaluation of symptom patterns
Assessment of impact on your life
Evidence-based treatments
Drawing on the latest research and clinical trials, we offer a range of proven treatments that can be tailored to each patient's needs:
Latest-generation antihistamines
Targeted nasal treatments
Protective eye drops
Immunotherapy for severe cases
Preventive strategies
Practical management strategies
We'll help you develop an effective management plan including:
Detailed medical history
Advanced allergy testing
Timing your medications
Reducing allergen exposure
Managing symptoms during high-risk periods

Why choose LACK Allergy Clinic for hay fever treatment?

Evidence-based treatments tailored to each patient
Cutting-edge research background
Comprehensive allergy assessment
Age-appropriate care approaches
Experienced specialist team
Flexible appointment times to suit work and school schedules
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Eczema
“As far as our family is concerned, Professor Lack is a miracle worker. We trust his advice implicitly and are very lucky to have him as our daughter’s specialist.”
Eczema
28th Sept 2024
Eczema
verified patient

Pioneering research, personalised care

Our approach combines our team's groundbreaking research into the causes and treatment of allergies with deeply personalised care. As global leaders in allergy prevention and treatment, we're dedicated to transforming lives through early intervention and innovative therapies. From food allergies and asthma to eczema and anaphylaxis, we provide evidence-based treatments tailored to each patient's needs.
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Your questions answered

Can hay fever be prevented?
While hay fever can't always be prevented, early intervention and appropriate management can significantly reduce its impact. Our specialists can help you develop effective prevention strategies based on your specific triggers.
How do you diagnose hay fever?
We use a combination of detailed medical history, physical examination, and specific allergy tests to provide an accurate diagnosis. This comprehensive approach helps us identify your exact triggers and develop the most effective treatment plan.
Will I need to take medication forever?
Not necessarily. While some people need ongoing treatment, others may benefit from immunotherapy or find their symptoms improve with age. We'll work with you to find the most appropriate long-term management strategy.
Does hay fever run in families?
Yes, there is a genetic component. Your risk increases to about 30% if one parent has allergies, and up to 50% if both parents are affected. However, environmental factors also play a crucial role.
How can I tell if my child has hay fever?
Unlike a cold, hay fever symptoms tend to persist for weeks or months and often include itchy eyes and nose. Children may repeatedly rub their nose upwards (known as the 'allergic salute') or appear tired and irritable during pollen season. Our specialists can provide a definitive diagnosis through appropriate testing.
At what age can hay fever develop?
Hay fever can develop at any age, though it most commonly appears during school years. Some children show first symptoms as young as two or three years old. Early diagnosis and management can significantly improve quality of life and potentially reduce the risk of developing associated conditions like asthma.
Will my child grow out of hay fever?
While some children's symptoms may improve with age, many will continue to experience hay fever into adulthood. However, with proper management and treatment, symptoms can be effectively controlled, allowing children to lead a normal, active life.
Are allergy medications safe for children?
Modern allergy treatments are generally very safe for children when properly prescribed. Our specialists carefully select age-appropriate medications and doses, considering factors such as your child's age, weight, and symptom severity. We'll discuss all treatment options with you, including potential benefits and side effects.
How can I help my child during exam season?
Exam periods often coincide with peak pollen seasons. We can help develop a management plan that includes:
  • Optimising medication timing for maximum effectiveness during exams
  • Practical strategies for reducing exposure to pollen
  • Working with schools to ensure appropriate support
  • Advice on creating a low-allergen study environment
What about school sports and outdoor activities?
Children with hay fever can and should participate in outdoor activities. We'll help you develop strategies to manage symptoms, such as:
‍
  • Timing activities to avoid peak pollen hours
  • Pre-emptive use of appropriate medications
  • Protective measures during sports
  • Guidelines for teachers and coaches

Take the first step towards relief

Whether you're seeking treatment for yourself or your child, our specialist team can help you understand your triggers and develop an effective management plan tailored to your needs.
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London Medical 

49 Marylebone High St.
The Portland Hospital 

215 Great Portland Street 

07493 280048 
/ 07765 977819
admin@londonallergy.com
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