Nasal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis, can cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities. Fortunately, nasal sprays are effective tools for managing allergy symptoms, providing relief from congestion, sneezing, itching, and runny nose. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore who can benefit from allergy nasal sprays, the different types available, potential side effects, and when to use each type.

Antihistamines are a group of medications that prevent the level of histamine from rising in our body and reduce the symptoms this can cause. They can be used to treat a range of conditions including allergic reactions, motion sickness and insomnia. However, the term "antihistamines" most commonly refers to medications that are used to treat hay fever. Antihistamines can be classified as sedating (drowsy) or non-sedating. With drowsy antihistamines, care should be exercised when driving or operating heavy machinery, and alcohol should be avoided. Below, Healthwords pharmacists will go into more detail about the different antihistamines and their side effects.

Antihistamines are a group of medications that prevent the level of histamine from rising in our body and reduce the symptoms this can cause. Antihistamines can be used to treat a range of conditions including allergic reactions, motion sickness and insomnia. However, the term "antihistamines" most commonly refers to medications that are used to treat hay fever. There’s an array of antihistamine products available, so let our resident pharmacist take you through where to start and how to choose between them.

The word ‘rhinitis’ means inflammation of the nose and if this is caused by an allergy, it’s known as ‘allergic rhinitis’. Allergic rhinitis, also sometimes known as hay fever, is an allergy to pollen and can occur all year round. Typically, grass or tree pollen is the cause, triggering itchy eyes, nose and throat plus sneezing, a runny nose and watery eyes. These symptoms occur in what’s known as hay fever season, which is typically from the end of March to July, but varies depending on where you are in the country and whether your allergy is to grass pollen that usually causes summer hay fever or tree pollen that affects people more in the spring. House dust mite and pet allergy can trigger allergic rhinitis at any time of the year. Allergic rhinitis is very common, with around 1 in 5 people in the UK suffering with it at some point in their life. However, it most commonly starts as a child or teenager. It can run in families and you’re more likely to have allergic rhinitis if you also suffer from asthma or eczema. Allergic rhinitis is not contagious (you can’t catch it from someone else).

Insect bites are common, especially during warmer months when outdoor activities increase. While most insect bites are harmless and cause only minor irritation, some can lead to infections if not properly cared for. An insect bite becomes infected when bacteria enter the wound, leading to symptoms beyond the usual itching and redness. Recognising an infected insect bite early is crucial to prevent more severe complications. If left untreated, an infection can spread to surrounding tissues or even enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to more severe health issues. Proper care and timely treatment can significantly affect recovery and overall well-being. This article will delve into the causes of infected insect bites, identify the symptoms that signal an infection, and discuss effective treatment options. By understanding these essential aspects, you can take the necessary steps to prevent complications and ensure that an insect bite remains a minor inconvenience rather than a significant health concern.

Most allergy treatments are there to treat the symptoms caused by allergies. However, Becodefence is a range of nasal sprays that are used to prevent allergy symptoms rather than treat the symptoms. Available products include Becodefence, Becodefence Plus, and Becodefence Kids nasal sprays. They are all available to buy without a prescription.

Pregnancy can leave you hot and bothered at the best of times, and you don’t want the added burden of hay fever symptoms. But lots of the products you’ve relied on before state they may not be safe in pregnancy. So how can you treat your symptoms? As practising GPs here at Healthwords, we’re used to weighing up risks and benefits – some products that are labelled as "unlicensed for pregnancy" may be an option after discussion with your doctor. Let’s arm you with the facts first, before you speak to your doctor. It’s also worth stating that hay fever, or allergic rhinitis (similar eye and nose symptoms to any allergen), is not known to cause any harm to you or your growing baby if left untreated. It’s for your comfort if you wish to pursue treatment for your symptoms.

If you’ve ever been caught off guard by an insect bite or sting, you know just how irritating the swelling, itching, and discomfort can be. Whether it’s a mosquito, bee, or wasp, these little nuisances can quickly ruin a good day outdoors. That’s where Anthisan Cream comes in. This topical treatment is a go-to for soothing the pain and itchiness caused by insect bites and stings. Its active ingredient targets the inflammation and irritation right where you need it, providing fast and effective relief. In this article, we’ll explore how Anthisan Cream works and how you can use it to get back to feeling your best.