To stop hay fever symptoms immediately, you can try the following effective methods:
- Use nasal sprays: Nonprescription corticosteroid nasal sprays such as fluticasone (Flonase), budesonide (Rhinocort), triamcinolone (Nasacort), or mometasone (Nasonex) reduce inflammation and are often the first recommended treatment. They may take a few days to reach full effect but can provide quick relief from nasal symptoms
- Take antihistamines: These block histamine, the chemical causing allergic symptoms, and are available as tablets, syrups, nasal sprays, and eye drops. Antihistamines can relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose quickly. Some may cause drowsiness, so consult a doctor or pharmacist for the best option
- Rinse nasal passages with saline: Using a saline nasal spray or performing nasal irrigation with a saltwater solution helps clear mucus and allergens from your nose, providing immediate relief from congestion and irritation
- Use petroleum jelly inside nostrils: Applying petroleum jelly around the inside edges of your nostrils traps pollen and prevents it from irritating nasal passages, reducing sneezing and discomfort quickly
- Inhale steam: Breathing in steam from a bowl of hot water loosens mucus and clears nasal passages, helping you breathe easier and reducing congestion fast
- Apply a cold compress to eyes: For itchy, swollen eyes, a cold compress can soothe irritation and reduce puffiness within minutes
Additional tips to reduce symptoms immediately include wearing wraparound sunglasses or a mask to block pollen, keeping windows and doors closed to prevent pollen entering your home, and changing clothes and showering after being outdoors to remove pollen
. If symptoms are severe or persistent, consult a healthcare professional who may recommend allergy shots (immunotherapy) or prescription medications for longer-term control
. In summary, combining antihistamines or nasal corticosteroid sprays with saline rinses, petroleum jelly, steam inhalation, and protective measures can stop hay fever symptoms quickly and effectively.
