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Allergic rhinitis

A blocked, runny, sneezy nose year-round. Treatable once the triggers are managed.

Speak to a GP about allergic rhinitisFrom £79

In short

Allergic rhinitis is very common and often year-round. When over-the-counter options aren't enough, a GP can prescribe stronger antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays that make a real difference.

Overview

What is allergic rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the inside of the nose caused by an allergic reaction. When it's seasonal (from pollen) it's called hay fever; when it's year-round it's usually triggered by indoor allergens such as house dust mites, pets, or mould. It causes sneezing, congestion, and a runny or itchy nose, and can affect sleep and concentration.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

  • Sneezing and an itchy nose
  • A blocked or runny nose
  • Postnasal drip and throat clearing
  • Itchy or watery eyes
  • Symptoms year-round (not just in pollen season)
  • Reduced sense of smell

When to act

When to see a doctor

Book a GP if symptoms are year-round, aren't controlled by over-the-counter treatments, are affecting your sleep or daily life, or you also have wheeze or breathlessness.

When to seek urgent help

Seek urgent help if

  • Wheeze or shortness of breath (possible allergic asthma, needs prompt assessment)
  • A history of severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis (refer to immunology)
  • One-sided symptoms, nosebleeds, or facial pain (needs a different assessment)

Call 999 for life-threatening emergencies or NHS 111 for urgent non-emergency advice.

Treatment

How a private GP can help

  • Assessment of likely triggers (dust mites, pets, mould) and severity
  • Prescription-strength oral antihistamines
  • Intranasal corticosteroid sprays, the most effective treatment for a blocked nose
  • Combination nasal sprays for stubborn symptoms
  • Advice on reducing exposure to indoor allergens
  • Treatment of any related allergic asthma, and referral for allergy testing where needed

What we don't do

  • Allergen immunotherapy (referred to a specialist allergy service)
  • Complex or multi-allergen investigation (referred to immunology)

Pricing

What it costs

An online consultation about allergic rhinitis starts at £79 for a 20-minute video appointment. In-pharmacy consultations are £129 and home visits are £189. Your consultation includes one private prescription if appropriate, and a sick note for work if needed. You pay the pharmacy separately for any medication.

See full pricing breakdown

FAQ

Common questions about allergic rhinitis

How is this different from hay fever?
Hay fever is seasonal allergic rhinitis caused by pollen. Allergic rhinitis more broadly includes year-round (perennial) symptoms from indoor allergens like dust mites, pets, and mould.
What's the most effective treatment?
A steroid nasal spray, used correctly and regularly, is the most effective treatment for a blocked, congested nose. Antihistamines help sneezing, itching, and a runny nose.
Can I take antihistamines every day?
Yes. Non-sedating antihistamines (fexofenadine, cetirizine, loratadine) are generally safe for long-term daily use in adults.
Should I get allergy testing?
Testing can help identify triggers in persistent or severe cases, and we can refer you. For most people, managing symptoms and reducing exposure is the first step.
See all conditions we can help with

Ready to talk to a GP about allergic rhinitis?

Message Emily on WhatsApp or book online in under 90 seconds. UK-registered doctors, available today.

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