NHS ENCOURAGING YOU TO BUY YOUR HAY FEVER TREATMENTS OVER THE COUNTER
NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight is encouraging the public to consider purchasing hay fever treatments, such as antihistamines, over the counter rather than requesting a GP prescription. With the NHS prescription charge currently at £9.90, many over the counter antihistamines are available at a lower price in pharmacies and supermarkets. This means patients can access the advice and medication they need at their local pharmacy without waiting for a GP appointment. It is also quicker than requesting a prescription through the GP. Dr Zaid Hirmiz, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, says: “As we enter hay fever season, many people rely on antihistamines to manage their symptoms. Most common antihistamines are available without a prescription, making it faster and often cheaper to get relief from allergies. “Our community pharmacists can provide advice on which treatment is best to manage the symptoms you are experiencing. However, those with severe allergies or symptoms that do not improve with standard over the counter treatments should seek further medical advice. GPs can provide specialist medications for individuals who need additional support.” Symptoms for hay fever are usually worse between late March and September, especially when it's warm, humid, and windy. This is when the pollen count is at its highest. The severity of symptoms can vary, some people can manage their condition by avoiding triggers and others need medication to manage their symptoms. Avoiding triggers can help ease symptoms of hay fever, such as: Keeping house and car windows closed, especially when the pollen count is high (early morning between 07:00-09:00 and evenings between 17:00-19:00). Consider changing your car pollen filter annually Avoiding large grassy areas, woodland, cutting the grass, pollutants, and car fumes Wearing wrap-around sunglasses Washing your hands, face, hair, rinse your eyes and change your clothes after being outside Keeping your house clean and wearing a mask and glasses when doing housework Don’t dry washing outside to avoid pollen sticking to your clothes Create a yearly reminder to start your treatment before your symptoms begin
Continue reading this article about NHS ENCOURAGING YOU TO BUY YOUR HAY FEVER TREATMENTS OVER THE COUNTER
by @islandecho
NHS Forums - For daily discussion by NHS Staff.
NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight is encouraging the public to consider purchasing hay fever treatments, such as antihistamines, over the counter rather than requesting a GP prescription. With the NHS prescription charge currently at £9.90, many over the counter antihistamines are available at a lower price in pharmacies and supermarkets. This means patients can access the advice and medication they need at their local pharmacy without waiting for a GP appointment. It is also quicker than requesting a prescription through the GP. Dr Zaid Hirmiz, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, says: “As we enter hay fever season, many people rely on antihistamines to manage their symptoms. Most common antihistamines are available without a prescription, making it faster and often cheaper to get relief from allergies. “Our community pharmacists can provide advice on which treatment is best to manage the symptoms you are experiencing. However, those with severe allergies or symptoms that do not improve with standard over the counter treatments should seek further medical advice. GPs can provide specialist medications for individuals who need additional support.” Symptoms for hay fever are usually worse between late March and September, especially when it's warm, humid, and windy. This is when the pollen count is at its highest. The severity of symptoms can vary, some people can manage their condition by avoiding triggers and others need medication to manage their symptoms. Avoiding triggers can help ease symptoms of hay fever, such as: Keeping house and car windows closed, especially when the pollen count is high (early morning between 07:00-09:00 and evenings between 17:00-19:00). Consider changing your car pollen filter annually Avoiding large grassy areas, woodland, cutting the grass, pollutants, and car fumes Wearing wrap-around sunglasses Washing your hands, face, hair, rinse your eyes and change your clothes after being outside Keeping your house clean and wearing a mask and glasses when doing housework Don’t dry washing outside to avoid pollen sticking to your clothes Create a yearly reminder to start your treatment before your symptoms begin
Continue reading this article about NHS ENCOURAGING YOU TO BUY YOUR HAY FEVER TREATMENTS OVER THE COUNTER
by @islandecho
NHS Forums - For daily discussion by NHS Staff.
