Hay fever injection cost, side effects and how to book ahead of UK 'pollen bomb'

Hay fever injection cost, side effects and how to book ahead of UK 'pollen bomb' Millions of Brits are suffering with hellish hay fever symptoms as the heatwave continues, with increased pollen levels set to cause havoc over the coming days A 'pollen bomb' is set to land across the UK in the coming days, meaning sufferers are in for further misery. Hay fever affects over 10 million people in the UK. Currently, the pollen count is classed as 'very high', with levels set to increase over the coming week. The spike is down to grass and weed seasons starting earlier and stronger this year, due to the warm weather we had over the second May bank holiday weekend. Taking antihistamines like Piriton - or stronger over the counter options like Allevia - can help ease symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, scratchy throats and runny noses. But extreme sufferers only get temporary relief. But there is another option - a hay fever injection known as Depo Kenalog. Seen as a "quick fix", it suppresses the immune system, reducing inflammation and allergic responses. However, it comes at a cost. Here's everything you need to know about the jab... How does the hay fever injection work? "The hay fever jab is an injection of a steroid called Kenalog, or triamcinolone acetonide to give it its full name, NHS GP Dr Asimah Hanif explains. "When you have hay fever, your immune system overreacts every time you breathe in pollen, flooding your body with chemicals that trigger that familiar sneezing, congestion and streaming eyes. Kenalog tells your immune system to stand down." The jab is injected into the muscle in your buttock and the doctor said it "slowly releases into the body over weeks, dampening the allergic response at its source." How long does it take for the hay fever injection to kick in? Most people feel the difference within 24 to 72 hours, and the relief typically last the whole pollen season - between six and 12 weeks. It's generally not recommended to take more than one dose a year. The only catch is that it's only available privately. "Corticosteroid injections for hay fever are not routinely recommended or commissioned by the NHS due to potential risks outweighing the benefits compared with safer alternatives, so you'd need to go to a private clinic. And it's not for everyone," Dr Hanif says. What are the potential side effects of taking a hay fever injection? These risks include a weakened immune system - making you significantly more vulnerable to infections such as flu, shingles and chickenpox. Once it's injected, the steriod can't be removed and will circulate in your body for three to eight weeks. But the benefits include season-long coverage and fast acting relief as it works rapidly. It also targets severe and debilitating symptoms. Dr Hanif warns that the injection is only suitable for adults with "severe hay fever who've already tried antihistamines, nasal sprays and eye drops without success." It's not suitable if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, under 18, or if you have uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, glaucoma or an active infection. "The key thing to understand is that once it's in, there's no taking it back. The steroid stays in your system for weeks regardless, so if you get side effects, you have to wait them out." Dr Hanif also warned that those looking to go on holiday this summer should declare it and let their health insurers know if they have had the treatment or medication in the last two years as any claim could be rejected. How much do hay fever injections cost and how can I book one? Private hay fever injections can range anywhere from £60 to £150 per dose. The price varies depending on the clinic, the dose needed and whether the consultation is included. The standard dose for adults weighing under 75kg (11.8 stone) is 40mg and is usually around £75 to £95. While the higher dose of 60mg to 80mg is for adults weighing over 75kg. This usually costs between £110 to £135. This price usually includes a consultation to go through medical history, as well as administering the injection. You will need to book through a private provider that employs qualified healthcare professionals. These can either be private GP clinics, independent pharmacies or medical aesthetics clinics. Always check the credentials of a company before booking and if you are unsure or need advice, contact your GP. Alternative hay fever treatments and when to take them According to Allergy UK, different pollen hits at different times: - Spring (March - May): Primarily driven by tree pollen. - Summer (June - August): Peak season for grass and weed pollen, causing the most severe symptoms. - Autumn (Sept - Nov): Weed pollen continues to taper off, while mould can become a factor. Experts recommend taking antihistamine tablets, nasal sprays, and eye drops which are all widely available at local pharmacies and start treatment up two weeks before your typical pollen seasons begins. But if these remedies don't work - it's always a good idea to speak to your GP who can prescribe stronger medications or allergy testing. Other NHS advice includes: - Put petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) around your nostrils to trap pollen - Wear wraparound sunglasses, a mask or a wide-brimmed hat to stop pollen from getting into your nose and eyes - Keep windows and doors shut as much as possible - Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth - Try to use a pollen filter in the air vents of your car, if you have one, and a HEPA filter in your vacuum cleaner The NHS says that hay fever symptoms are typically worse between late March and September. Warm, humid and windy conditions tend to make the problem worse. "Hay fever can last for weeks or months, unlike a cold, which usually goes away after one to two weeks."