What helps seasonal allergies?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
The core combo: a daily non-drowsy antihistamine plus a steroid nasal spray (started before the season and used daily), with antihistamine eye drops for itchy eyes - all from a pharmacist. The pollen tactics: check forecasts, keep windows shut at home and in the car, shower and change after being outside, dry laundry indoors on high-pollen days, wear wraparound sunglasses, and dab Vaseline around the nostrils to trap pollen. Symptoms lasting weeks to months - versus a cold's 1 to 2 weeks - is itself the allergy clue. If the pharmacy plan fails after a proper trial, ask about prescriptions and allergy testing. Pymander is a free AI doctor, 24/7 by text, and can help you build your season plan.
What to do
- Start the steroid spray before the season: daily use is what makes it work.
- Shower the day off: hair and skin carry pollen to your pillow.
- Vaseline the nostrils: a cheap physical pollen trap the NHS actually recommends.
- Match symptom length: weeks to months says allergy, not a cold.
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