What is hay fever?
Hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) is an allergic reaction to pollen from grass, trees, or weeds. The immune system mistakes pollen for a threat and releases histamine, which causes the symptoms. Pollen seasons vary by type, running from late March through September in most of the UK.
Common symptoms
- Sneezing, often in bursts
- Runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Itchy throat, mouth, or ears
- Cough
- Headache or sinus pressure
- Tiredness, often from disrupted sleep
When to see a doctor
Book a GP if over-the-counter treatments aren't controlling symptoms, hay fever is affecting your sleep, work, or daily life, or you need stronger options ahead of exams or important events.
Seek urgent help if
- Wheeze or shortness of breath (possible allergic asthma , needs prompt assessment)
- History of anaphylaxis with food or insect stings (refer to specialist immunology)
- Symptoms year-round, not just in season (suggests perennial rhinitis or non-allergic cause)
How a private GP can help
A consultation typically covers:
- Assessment of triggers and severity
- Prescription-strength oral antihistamines (e.g. fexofenadine, levocetirizine)
- Intranasal corticosteroid sprays (e.g. mometasone, fluticasone) which are more effective than antihistamines for blocked nose
- Eye drops for itchy or watery eyes (sodium cromoglicate, olopatadine)
- Advice on minimising exposure (timing of outdoor activity, pollen counts, etc.)
- Treatment for any associated allergic asthma
What we don't do
- Allergen immunotherapy (referred to specialist allergy clinic)
- Investigation of complex or multi-allergen cases (refer to immunology)
What it costs
An online consultation about hay fever 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 the full pricing breakdown for what's included with each appointment type.