Science-Backed Tips for Managing Hay Fever and Seasonal Allergies

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 13:14:00 +0200

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, affects around 400 million people worldwide, causing symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. The article explains that both the prevalence and severity of seasonal allergies appear to be increasing, partly due to climate change. Experts recommend starting treatment early rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. The most effective first-line treatments are nasal corticosteroid sprays or combined corticosteroid-antihistamine nasal sprays, which work better than oral antihistamines because they deliver medication directly to the affected nasal tissues. Second-generation oral antihistamines like loratadine or fexofenadine are preferable over older sedating ones if pills are used. Nasal decongestant sprays should be avoided for more than a few days to prevent rebound congestion. Proper administration technique is crucial: nasal sprays should be aimed toward the ear on the same side and not sniffed forcefully, while eye drops should be placed i