Self Help - Hay Fever / Conjunctivitis

Hay Fever

The symptoms of hay fever include itchy or irritated red eyes, runny nose, tickly throat and sometimes a cough.

The best initial treatments are antihistamines. A range of these are most easily available from the pharmacy without prescription or via the minor ailments scheme.

Nasal sprays and eye drops can also help and can also be obtained directly from the pharmacy without the need for a doctor's appointment.

Local honey (this must be produced in the local area) can also be of use in managing hay fever.

Should initial treatments fail please consult one of the doctors at the practice. This can usually be most quickly and easily achieved by organising a telephone appointment.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is a mild irritation or inflammation surrounding the eye itself. It usually results in a gritty, red, itchy eye which may be watery and sometimes has some discharge.

The best immediate treatment is to bathe the eyes frequently in a very weak soap solution; this helps clear away any eyelid debris which can trap infections and can irritate the eye.

Put ONE DROP of baby shampoo or similar into a small glass and then fill this with boiling water. WAIT FOR THIS TO COOL TO ROOM TEMPERATURE BEFORE USING. Then, at least 3-4 times a day, use this and a cotton wool ball to swipe the affected eye(s) from the nose, towards the ear. This should improve things in a few days but if it is not helping then please do consult a nurse at the practice.

CHILDREN DO NOT REQUIRE SCHOOL OR NURSERY EXCLUSION FOR CONJUNCTIVITIS (unless they are otherwise unwell with a different illness at the same time).