Hay fever Flashcards
What are 5 symptoms of hay fever?
- Sneezing
- Runny nose (Rhinorrhoea)
- Nasal congestion
- Itchy nose, eyes, ears and throat.
- Red and watery eyes
Does hay fever require a counselling room?
No
What are 7 red flags for referral with hay fever?
- Unresponsive to OTC products
- Quality of life severely affected
- Unilateral nasal obstruction without rhinorrhoea
- Symptoms suggestive of an infection (purulent nasal discharge, facial pain, etc)
- Impaired sense of smell
- Symptoms of undiagnosed or uncontrolled asthma i.e., shortness of breath, wheezing.
- Children < 12 years with suspected first episode of hay fever.
Does hay fever have a PSA self-care card?
Yes (Hay fever)
What is the preferred treatment option for hay fever?
Loratadine (Claratyne)
What are the directions for loratadine (Claratyne) in hay fever for adults and children over 30 kg?
Oral, 10 mg once daily.
What are the directions for loratadine (Claratyne) in hay fever for adults and children aged 2 to 12 years (and under 30 kg)?
Oral, 5 mg once daily.
What are the directions for loratadine (Claratyne) in hay fever for adults and children aged 1 to 2 years?
Oral, 2.5 mg once daily
What are 7 non-preferred options for hay fever and why?
- Fexofenadine: bigger tablet
- Cetirizine: more likely to be sedating
- proMETHazine: sedating
- dexchlorpheniramine: sedating
- azelastine: dependent on correct use of nasal spray
- mometasone: dependent on correct use of nasal spray and does not provide immediate relief
- Levocabastine 0.05% w/v (Livostin): dependent on correct use of eye drop
Is Loratadine (Claratyne) safe in pregnancy?
Yes
Is Loratadine (Claratyne) safe in breastfeeding?
Yes
What is the age range for Loratadine (Claratyne)?
Safe in children over 1
What are 12 pieces of non-pharmacological advice for hay fever?
- Avoid allergens or irritants where possible.
- Stay inside during the morning hours when pollen counts are highest.
- Avoid outdoor activities when trees, flowers or moulds that trigger the allergy are present.
- Shower after outdoor exposure to remove pollen that adheres to the hair and skin.
- Close house and car windows to exclude pollen.
- Use an air conditioner in warmer months to reduce indoor humidity; and prevent mould growth.
- Clear air filters regularly.
- Cover pillows and mattresses with impermeable covers to reduce exposure to house dust mites.
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water.
- Limit the presence of dust- collecting furnishing such as curtains, bed skirts, carpeting, and soft toys.
- Vacuuming frequently (at least once a week).
- A history of allergic disorders such as eczema, asthma, or food allergies in one or both parents increase the risk of developing hay fever.
