Corticosteroid nasal sprays or drops are the most effective standard treatment for hay fever and other nasal allergies. The benefit is usually obvious within a few days of starting treatment, but may not reach its maximum effect for up to two weeks.
If you get hay fever in the spring or summer, start using your nasal spray at least two weeks before symptoms are expected to start. Taking the spray every day is important.
If you are not sure of the best way to use a nasal spray read the How to use a nasal spray patient information leaflet published by the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
How to use a nasal spray patient information leaflet (PDF 139 KB)
Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that can be life-threatening or fatal.
People with hay fever (rhinitis) have inflamed lining in their nose, which causes it to be blocked, running and itchy, as well as causing sneezing.
Urticaria is a condition which involves the development of itchy wheals (hives) on the skin.
Around 5–10% of people who have a problem with a drug are suffering from a drug allergy, possibly one prescribed by their GP or as part of an investigation in hospital.
Between 1-10% of adults and children in the UK have a food allergy.
The Trust offers a wide range of allergy services for adults of all ages. This includes specialist services for patients with difficult to manage allergies.
Contact us
Phone: 020 7351 8892
Find us
Allergy Team, Fulham Wing/South Block, Fulham Road, Royal Brompton Hospital