ABOUT YOUR SYMPTOMS

Hay fever

Sneezing, runny nose, congestion, and itchy eyes may be caused by pollen allergy. The pattern and severity help determine treatment.

ONLINE CONSULTATION

What can be discussed online

Sneezing, runny nose, congestion, and itchy eyes may be caused by pollen allergy. The pattern and severity help determine treatment.

  • Typical seasonal nasal or eye symptoms
  • Symptoms remain mild to moderate
  • Consultation about preventive or symptomatic medicine

The doctor may recommend an in-person visit or tests when online assessment is not sufficient.

POSSIBLE CONDITIONS

Symptoms and possible conditions

The main cause is seasonal allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis. Similar symptoms can occur with colds, sinusitis, asthma, or other allergies.

WHEN TO SEEK CARE IN PERSON

Seek prompt in-person care if any of these apply

These symptoms may indicate a severe allergic reaction or another condition. If any of the following apply, prioritize in-person or emergency care.

Shortness of breath, wheezing, or difficulty speaking
Swelling of the lips or tongue
Severe eye pain or visual disturbance
High fever or marked facial pain

We may recommend an ear, nose and throat specialist or ophthalmologist

  • Persistent yellow or green nasal discharge with facial pain
  • Persistent blockage or bleeding from one side of the nose
  • Eye discharge or marked redness
  • Severe symptoms despite over-the-counter medicine

If you have difficulty breathing or rapidly increasing swelling of the face or tongue, consider calling 119.

DURING YOUR CONSULTATION

What the doctor will ask

To understand your condition as accurately as possible, the doctor will review the following points in order.

  1. 01Season and duration of symptoms
  2. 02Severity of nasal, eye, and throat symptoms
  3. 03Fever, shortness of breath, or facial pain
  4. 04Effects on daily life and sleep
  5. 05Medicines that worked before and any side effects
  6. 06Medical conditions, possible pregnancy, and current medicines

TESTS AND TREATMENT

Tests and treatment

Allergy testing may be recommended

If the causative pollen needs to be identified or another condition must be excluded, we may recommend blood tests or an examination by an ear, nose and throat specialist or ophthalmologist.

Treatment is tailored to your symptoms and daily life

The doctor will choose among antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops while considering drowsiness and your medical conditions.

Some medicines cause drowsiness. Tell us if you plan to drive or perform hazardous work and list any other medicines you take.

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

Please prepare

01Timing and severity of symptomsRecord nasal, eye, and throat symptoms separately
02Over-the-counter medicines in useProduct names or photos
03Medicines that worked beforeIncluding any side effects
04Current medicinesPlease prepare your medication record

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Questions about this symptom

Can I start taking medicine before symptoms appear?

If you know when your symptoms usually begin each year, treatment can sometimes be started before they become severe. Please consult us about the best time to begin.

Can I also consult you about eye drops or nasal sprays?

Yes. We will review your nasal and eye symptoms and the medicines you currently use before considering the best combination.

ONLINE CARE

Hay fever

The doctor may recommend an in-person visit or tests when online assessment is not sufficient.

Book an online consultation
Book an online consultation