"My hay fever is usually gone by now — why is it still this bad?" We're hearing this question every single day at the moment, and there's a real reason behind it.
This summer's prolonged heatwave has extended the UK pollen season well beyond what most people expect. Warm, dry, breezy weather is perfect for pollen — it stays airborne longer and spreads further, which means allergy sufferers are battling symptoms much later into the year than usual. In fact, demand for stronger antihistamines like fexofenadine has surged across the UK this season.
Why it feels worse this year
- Longer season: the heat has stretched pollen release over more weeks
- Higher exposure: dry air keeps pollen floating around for longer
- Symptom fatigue: weeks of sneezing, itchy eyes and congestion wear you down
What actually works (the pharmacist approach)
If your usual tablet has "stopped working," it likely hasn't — your pollen exposure has just increased. Here's what we recommend:
- Switch your antihistamine. If cetirizine or loratadine isn't cutting it, fexofenadine is the strongest non-drowsy option and is now available without prescription.
- Add a steroid nasal spray. This tackles congestion that tablets can't — and it's the single most effective thing most people aren't doing.
- Add antihistamine eye drops for itchy, streaming eyes.
This "triple approach" — tablet + nasal spray + eye drops — is far more effective than simply taking more tablets.
Simple things that help
- Shower and change clothes after being outside to remove pollen
- Keep windows shut during high pollen times (early morning, early evening)
- Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors
- Dry washing indoors on high-pollen days
Come and talk to us
Don't keep buying random products hoping something works. Our pharmacists will look at your specific symptoms and build a combination that actually gives you relief — free advice, no appointment needed.
📞 Call 0151 263 3631 or visit 140 Oakfield Road, Liverpool L4 0UQ.
This article is for general information only. Always read the label and ask your pharmacist if you take other medication, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.
