When to see your GP or allergist

If your hay fever symptoms are becoming difficult to live with, it may be a good idea to see a healthcare professional.

It is not easy living with hay fever, especially if your symptoms are interfering with sleep and daily activities such as work or school.^1-3

If you have tried hay fever treatments and they are not controlling your symptoms, talking with a GP can help.² It is also recommended that you see a GP if you have other ongoing respiratory conditions such as asthma.⁴ As uncontrolled hay fever can worsen asthma, it is important you discuss both conditions with your GP so you are clear on your treatment plan to manage both conditions.

Your GP may also decide to refer you to an allergy specialist.¹

When should I see an allergist?

You may be referred to an allergist, also called clinical immunology or allergy specialist. This may be recommended if:^4,5

Hay fever symptoms are severe or constant
Hay fever medicines do not provide effective relief or cause intolerable side effects
It is difficult to avoid the allergen that triggers your hay fever (e.g., Pollen)
You have a work-related allergy (e.g., A vet nurse with pet dander allergy)
You have complex allergic disease (e.g., Allergic rhinitis and asthma or eczema)
You were previously diagnosed with anaphylaxis or other types of allergies, such as to food or medicines

What does an allergist do?

An allergist is a specialised doctor with extensive training in diagnosing, treating, and managing hay fever and other allergies.⁵You can visit an allergy specialist with a referral from a GP.⁵

Before giving treatments or advice, an allergist may request allergy tests. Allergy tests can help confirm what triggers your hay fever and how severe your hay fever reactions are. Tests could include skin prick tests and blood tests. The test results, along with your symptoms and hay fever history, help an allergist recommend the most appropriate treatments for you.^4,6

Skin prick testing

Small pricks are made on the skin of your arm or back and allergens are applied.^4,6
If you react to an allergen, itchy red lumps appear within 15–20 minutes.⁶

IgE blood test

An allergy specialist may sometimes order a blood test.⁶
The test can detect allergen specific antibodies called immunoglobulin E, or IgE.⁶

You can learn more about hay fever treatment options and support here

If you think you have hay fever, it can be helpful to keep a symptom diary and discuss appropriate treatment options with your doctor to make sure your hay fever doesn't impact your quality of life.