Hay fever treatment in Huntingdon.
Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen, and it can make spring and summer miserable. Under the NHS Minor Ailments Scheme our pharmacist can advise on easing your symptoms and, where suitable, supply NHS treatment — no GP referral required.
What is hay fever?
Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen from trees, grass and weeds. It is common during spring and summer, although the timing depends on the type of pollen.
Hay fever is not infectious, so you cannot catch it from another person. Unlike a cold, it can last for weeks or months while pollen levels remain high.
No appointment needed — come in during opening hours and ask for the pharmacist.
Prefer a set time? Call and we'll book you in with the pharmacist.
Open Mon–Fri 08:45–18:00 (closed 13:00–14:00).
Common signs and symptoms
- Frequent sneezing
- A runny or blocked nose
- An itchy nose, throat or roof of the mouth
- Red, itchy or watery eyes
- Coughing or an itchy feeling in the throat
- Tiredness or difficulty sleeping because of symptoms
What causes hay fever?
Hay fever happens when your immune system reacts to pollen in the air. Symptoms often occur at particular times of year:
Tree pollen commonly affects people from spring.
Grass pollen commonly affects people in late spring and summer.
Weed pollen can affect people later in summer and into autumn.
Symptoms may be worse on high-pollen days, particularly when it is warm, sunny or windy. Pollen can also enter the home through open windows, on clothing and on pets.
How can it be prevented?
A few everyday habits can help reduce your exposure to pollen.
Limit time outdoors when pollen levels are high.
Keep them closed as much as possible when pollen counts are high.
This washes pollen off your skin and hair and removes the pollen caught on your clothes.
They help keep pollen away from your eyes.
A little vaseline around the edges of your nostrils can help trap pollen.
Avoid drying clothes outside during high-pollen periods — pollen can settle on them.
Avoid cutting grass or spending time around freshly cut grass.
Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth to reduce pollen in your home.
When should someone seek medical help?
Most people can manage hay fever with pharmacy treatment and these simple measures, but do get help if it isn't under control.
Speak to your GP or pharmacist
Get advice if:
- Symptoms are getting worse
- Symptoms are affecting your sleep or everyday activities
- Symptoms are not improving with pharmacy treatments
- You have asthma and your asthma symptoms are worsening
Call 999 in an emergency
Sudden swelling, difficulty breathing or collapse can indicate a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. These are not typical hay fever symptoms and require emergency help. Call 999 if someone has:
- Sudden swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Collapse
Remember: Hay fever cannot currently be cured, but the right treatment and a few changes to your routine can make symptoms much easier to manage.
Read the NHS hay fever guideCommon questions
Can a pharmacist help with hay fever?
Yes. Under the NHS Minor Ailments Scheme our pharmacist can ask about your symptoms, advise on reducing your exposure to pollen and, where suitable, supply NHS treatment such as antihistamine tablets, a steroid nasal spray or eye drops.
Is hay fever contagious?
No. Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen, not an infection, so you cannot catch it from another person or pass it on.
How long does hay fever last?
Unlike a cold, hay fever can last for weeks or months while pollen levels remain high. How long yours lasts depends on which pollens set it off — tree, grass or weed pollen peak at different times of year.
How much does it cost?
The consultation is free. If the pharmacist can treat you under the scheme, any NHS prescription charge that applies is the same as it would be at your GP — and free if you don't normally pay for prescriptions.
Do I need an appointment?
No — walk-ins are welcome during opening hours. If you'd rather have a set time, call us on 01480 425412 and we'll schedule one for you.
Is the consultation private?
Yes. Any consultation takes place in our private consultation room, and anything you discuss stays confidential.
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Walk in and ask for the pharmacist, or call us to arrange a time — free NHS advice and treatment under the Minor Ailments Scheme.