Hay fever season is almost upon us and residents of Lanarkshire can help protect themselves by contacting their local pharmacy for advice and treatment.
NHS Pharmacy First Scotland, provided by local community pharmacies across Scotland, serves as the first port of call for individuals grappling with minor health concerns such as hay fever without the need for an appointment.
Lauren Gibson (pictured), NHS Lanarkshire lead pharmacist for community pharmacy services, said: “With the arrival of spring, we understand the increased demand for support with common seasonal ailments like hay fever. Pharmacy First provides a convenient and efficient solution, ensuring that individuals can access the guidance and treatment they need where appropriate without delay.
“Hay fever is a common condition that causes sneezing, coughing and itchy eyes, mainly affecting people in spring and summer. It is not curable but can usually be managed effectively by using a combination of antihistamine medications (tablets or liquid), a steroid nasal spray and antihistamine eye drops.
“These are available to buy from shops, supermarkets or pharmacies without the need for a prescription or appointment. Some can also be obtained free of charge from the ‘Pharmacy First’ service at your local community pharmacy. This year there is a wider range of products and medication available.
“As always, some of medication isn’t appropriate for everyone. If this is the case, the pharmacist will refer you to your GP for further help and advice.
“Your local community pharmacy can provide advice on managing your symptoms. Antihistamine medications work best for hay fever if you start taking them 2-4 weeks before your symptoms usually start. You can continue taking them throughout the season.”
The following measures can also help:
- Wear wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting into your eyes
- Shower and change your clothes after you have been outside to wash off pollen
- Stay indoors and keep windows and doors shut as much as possible
- Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth
- Buy a pollen filter for the air vents in your car and a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter
In keeping with NHS Lanarkshire’s guidance on Items which should not be prescribed, please do not request these medications from your GP.
You should contact your GP:
- If you are experiencing wheezing, breathlessness or tightness in your chest
- If your condition is not improving after using an over-the-counter medicine as directed in combination with measures to reduce your exposure to pollen
- If you are breastfeeding or pregnant
For more information on the Pharmacy First service, you can reach out to your local pharmacy team to take full advantage of the service and help navigate through springtime ailments.
Details of all local pharmacies can be found via the NHS Lanarkshire online Spring Health Hub: www.nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk/your-health/spring-health/
