Hay fever

Question 1

Levocabastine

Answer 1

Intranasal antihistamine - sneezing, rhinorrhea, nasal itch + congestion (more effective than INCS for nasal congestion)
DOSE: adults, children >12; spray 2 in each nostril twice daily
- shake well before use
- check effectiveness after 1 week (max use = 8 weeks)
- SAFE FOR P+BF
- adverse effects: nasal irritation / nosebleeds

Question 2

Beclometasone

Answer 2

Intranasal corticosteroid (INCSs) - nasal congestion, clear rhinorrhea, ocular symptoms
DOSE: Adults, children > 12; 2 sprays into each nostril twice daily
- shake well before use
- only use if moderate-severe symptoms (> 4/d/w + impair daily activities)
- SAFE FOR P+BF
- Adverse effects: nasal irritation / nosebleeds

Question 3

Cetirizine (10mg) tablets

Answer 3

Oral less sedating antihistamine - sneezing, rhinorrhea, ocular signs + symptoms
DOSE: adults, children >12; 1 tablet once daily
children 6-12; 1/2 tablet (5mg) twice daily
- SAFE IN P+BF
- Adverse effects: sedation, dry mouth, constipation

Question 4

referral symptoms of hayfever

Answer 4

• symptoms unresponsive to treatments
• seriously affecting the quality of life
• persistent nasal obstruction or discharge
• nose bleeds
• IMPAIRED SENSE OF SMELL
• signs or symptoms of undiagnosed asthma (e.g. wheezing, shortness of breath)
• inflammation of eye tissues