Allergies in Hampshire: How to Tame Hay Fever and Sinus Symptoms
Each spring and summer, thousands of people across Hampshire start sniffling, sneezing, and rubbing their itchy eyes. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone — hay fever (allergic rhinitis) affects up to 1 in 4 adults in the UK.
At Hampshire ENT clinics, we help patients manage allergy-related nasal and sinus symptoms using a combination of medical therapy, modern procedures, and lifestyle strategies.
🌿 What Causes Hay Fever?
Hay fever occurs when your immune system overreacts to harmless airborne particles such as:
Tree pollen (spring)
Grass pollen (late spring to summer)
Weed pollen (late summer to autumn)
Mould spores or dust mites (year-round symptoms)
When these allergens are inhaled, they trigger inflammation inside the nose and sinuses, leading to nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes.
🤧 Common Allergy and Sinus Symptoms
Blocked or runny nose
Repeated sneezing
Postnasal drip and throat clearing
Facial pressure or headaches
Reduced sense of smell
Fatigue or poor sleep from congestion
If symptoms persist beyond the pollen season, you may also have chronic rhinosinusitis — often linked to ongoing inflammation from allergies.
💊 Managing Hay Fever and Sinus Problems
1. Avoidance & Lifestyle Measures
Check Hampshire pollen forecasts and limit outdoor time on high-pollen days.
Shower and change clothes after being outside.
Keep windows closed during peak pollen hours (morning and early evening).
Use saline rinses to clear allergens from the nose.
2. Medical Treatments
Nasal steroid sprays to reduce inflammation.
Antihistamines (tablets or nasal sprays) to relieve sneezing and itch.
Leukotriene inhibitors (e.g., montelukast) for stubborn symptoms.
Allergen immunotherapy (desensitisation) in selected cases.
3. Procedural Options at Hampshire ENT
For patients with chronic nasal congestion or rhinitis that doesn’t respond to medication, we also offer:
Clarifix® cryotherapy – targets the overactive nasal nerves causing persistent runny nose and drip.
Turbinoplasty – reduces swollen nasal tissue to improve airflow.
Endoscopic sinus surgery – for patients with chronic sinus disease or polyps.
📍 Expert Allergy & Sinus Care in Hampshire
At Hampshire ENT clinics, our team provides a full spectrum of care — from medical allergy management to advanced ENT procedures — helping patients across Portsmouth, Winchester & Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region breathe easier all year round.
👉 If hay fever or sinus problems are affecting your daily life, contact Hampshire ENT clinics to arrange an assessment and personalised treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Hay Fever and Allergy-Related Sinus Problems
What is hay fever?
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an allergic reaction to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or mould spores. It causes inflammation of the nasal lining, leading to congestion, sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes.
Why are my symptoms worse in spring and summer?
Symptoms usually worsen during pollen seasons:
Spring: tree pollen
Late spring to summer: grass pollen
Late summer: weed pollen
Some people also have year-round symptoms due to dust mites or mould.
Can hay fever cause sinus problems?
Yes. Ongoing allergic inflammation can block sinus drainage pathways, leading to:
Facial pressure or headaches
Thick nasal discharge
Reduced sense of smell
Chronic rhinosinusitis
This is why some patients feel congested even outside pollen season.
Why don’t antihistamines always work?
Antihistamines help sneezing and itch but are less effective for nasal blockage. Inflammation inside the nose often needs:
Regular steroid nasal sprays
Saline rinses
Sometimes procedural treatment
Correct technique and consistent use are essential.
When should I see an ENT specialist?
ENT assessment is recommended if:
Nasal blockage is persistent or severe
Symptoms last beyond pollen season
You have facial pain, pressure or reduced smell
You rely heavily on sprays or tablets
Sleep or daily activities are affected
What treatments do ENT specialists offer beyond medication?
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, options may include:
Clarifix® cryotherapy for chronic runny nose and postnasal drip
Turbinoplasty for persistently swollen nasal tissue
Endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic sinus disease or polyps
These are considered when optimal medical therapy has not worked.
Can allergies cause tiredness and poor sleep?
Yes. Nasal blockage and mouth breathing can disrupt sleep, leading to:
Daytime fatigue
Poor concentration
Headaches
Treating nasal airflow often improves sleep quality significantly.
Is hay fever something I just have to live with?
No. While hay fever is common, symptoms can usually be well controlled with the right combination of treatment. Many patients experience major improvement once inflammation is properly addressed.
Where can I get specialist help locally?
Consultant-led assessment and treatment are available at Hampshire ENT Clinics, caring for patients across Portsmouth, Winchester, Salisbury and the wider Hampshire region.