Hay Fever & Allergy Treatment in Ealing
Clinical Assessment and Treatment for Hay Fever and Allergies
At Bramley Pharmacy, we provide a structured clinical service for the assessment and management of hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Our approach focuses on safe, evidence-based treatment tailored to your symptoms and medical history.
What is Hay Fever?
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an immune response to airborne allergens such as pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. This leads to inflammation of the nasal passages and eyes.
Common symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion or runny nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Post-nasal drip
- Fatigue
Our Treatment Approach
We follow a stepwise, clinically appropriate pathway. Most patients achieve good symptom control with standard treatments when used correctly.
First-Line and Optimised Treatments
These may include:
- Intranasal corticosteroids (e.g. Avamys)
- Combination nasal sprays (e.g. Dymista)
- Oral antihistamines (e.g. Fexofenadine)
- Antihistamine eye drops (e.g. Opatanol)
- Short-term nasal decongestants (e.g. Otrivine)
Treatment is individualised, and we ensure correct use before considering escalation.
When Symptoms Are Not Controlled
If symptoms persist despite appropriate treatment, we carry out a more detailed clinical review to:
- Confirm the diagnosis of allergic rhinitis
- Exclude alternative diagnoses (e.g. infection, sinusitis, non-allergic rhinitis)
- Assess adherence and technique
- Optimise or adjust treatment safely
Intramuscular Corticosteroid Injection (Triamcinolone)
In a small number of cases, where symptoms are severe and significantly impacting quality of life despite optimised therapy, an intramuscular corticosteroid injection such as Kenalog may be considered.
Important Information
- This is not a routine or first-line treatment
- It is considered only following clinical assessment and failure of standard therapies
- Use of triamcinolone for hay fever is unlicensed in the UK
This means it is prescribed on a clinical judgement basis, where the potential benefits are considered to outweigh the risks for that individual patient.
Clinical Considerations and Risks
Triamcinolone is a long-acting corticosteroid with systemic effects. As such, it carries potential risks.
Possible side effects include:
- Mood changes or sleep disturbance
- Increased appetite
- Indigestion
- Temporary suppression of the immune response
Less common but important risks include:
- Raised blood glucose levels
- Blood pressure changes
- Increased susceptibility to infection
- Hormonal (adrenal) suppression
- Local tissue changes at the injection site
Because of these risks, careful patient selection is essential.
Assessment and Safety
Before any treatment is considered, we undertake:
- A full clinical history and assessment
- Review of previous treatments and response
- Screening for contraindications and risk factors
- Discussion of alternative options
We may advise against this treatment where risks outweigh potential benefits.
Informed Consent
If appropriate, treatment is only provided after:
- A clear explanation of risks and expected outcomes
- Discussion of alternative options
- Confirmation that the patient understands this is an off-label use
- Written informed consent
Our Clinical Approach
Our priority is safe, appropriate care:
- We do not promote higher-risk treatments as routine
- We focus on optimising safer, standard therapies first
- Any escalation is based on clinical need, not preference alone
Why Choose Bramley Pharmacy
- Assessment by an experienced prescribing pharmacist
- Evidence-based, structured treatment pathways
- Emphasis on safety and informed decision-making
- Personalised care tailored to your needs
Book a Consultation
To arrange an appointment, call 0208 840 4464 or book online.
Appointments are available weekdays and Saturdays.
Need Advice First?
If you’re unsure about your symptoms or treatment options, speak to our team for guidance.
