Grass pollen, the big summer trigger, has largely finished by the end of August. If you are still sneezing in September you are not imagining it - the culprits have just changed.
What is setting you off in autumn
- Weed pollen (nettle, mugwort, dock) carries on into September.
- Mould spores peak in early autumn: damp leaves, compost, and indoors around windows and bathrooms once the heating goes on.
- House dust mites thrive when we shut the windows and turn the radiators up. Symptoms are often worst first thing in the morning.
- Pet dander builds up indoors for the same reason.
A cold and an allergy can feel similar. The clue is itching: itchy eyes, nose or throat points to allergy, and a cold rarely lasts longer than ten days.
What helps
Antihistamine tablets
Non-drowsy once-a-day options (cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine) are the backbone. Cetirizine tends to work faster; loratadine is the least likely to cause drowsiness; fexofenadine is worth trying if the others fade. Everything is in our allergy relief collection, and our guide to hay fever tablets compares them properly.
Steroid nasal sprays
If a blocked or runny nose is the main problem, a daily steroid nasal spray (beclometasone, fluticasone) does more than tablets - but it takes a few days of regular use to work, so do not give up after two sprays. A saline rinse such as Sterimar before the spray clears the way.
Eye drops
Sodium cromoglicate drops (for example Optrex itchy eye drops) are safe for regular use and calm itchy, watery eyes within minutes.
Stronger options
Sedating antihistamines such as chlorphenamine or promethazine, and combination decongestant products, are pharmacy medicines. On our site they start with a short pharmacist check; in store, just ask.
Cut the exposure
- Wash bedding weekly at 60 degrees; consider anti-allergy pillow and mattress covers.
- Ventilate bathrooms and kitchens; wipe visible mould with a diluted bleach product.
- Keep pets out of bedrooms.
- Vacuum with a HEPA filter and damp-dust rather than dry-dust.
When to see someone
Wheeze, breathlessness or a tight chest with allergies can mean asthma and needs a GP review. Symptoms that do not budge after four weeks of regular treatment also deserve a proper look - allergy testing or a prescription nasal spray may be the answer.
Questions? Call 0151 263 3631 or pop in to 140 Oakfield Road. Always read the label; this is general information, not a diagnosis.
