Over-the-counter allergy medications can work for the majority of people with moderate hay fever, which is when the symptoms interfere with someone’s work, sleep and daily life activities. Combining regular daily antihistamines with a steroid-based nasal spray and eye drops is a good option for those who suffer from moderate hay fever. Antihistamine tablets generally reduce both nose and eye symptoms caused by hay fever, and steroid nasal sprays work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, unblocking the nose and resulting in less sneezing. Meanwhile, eye drops provide shorter-term relief as they work to reduce eye itchiness and irritation. Often, taking a single daily antihistamine tablet is not sufficient. Taking all three treatments together on a regular daily basis really helps to get the best possible control of hay fever. Hay fever sufferers should begin taking medication up to three weeks before the new pollen season begins. If over-the-counter treatments do not tackle symptoms, Dr Watts recommends consulting a healthcare professional, who can share advice and options for stronger medications.