Other Nasal Sprays
Alongside steroid sprays, there are several other kinds of nasal spray sold for hay fever. Most fall into one of three groups: decongestants, antihistamine sprays and barrier or saline products.
Decongestant Sprays
These contain sympathomimetic amines, which narrow the blood vessels in the nose and clear a blockage quickly. They work fast, and on a bad day that is exactly what makes them appealing.
The important thing to know is that they are intended for short-term use only, usually no more than about a week. Used for longer, they can produce rebound congestion, where the nose becomes blocked again as the effect wears off and worsens the more the spray is used. It is an easy trap to fall into, because the immediate remedy for the blockage is another spray.
They also do nothing about the underlying allergic reaction, so they relieve one symptom without addressing what is causing it.
Antihistamine Sprays
These deliver an antihistamine directly to the nose rather than through a tablet. They act faster than tablets and are useful for someone whose symptoms are mainly nasal, though as with any nasal spray, they do little for the eyes.
Barrier & Saline Products
Saline rinses and barrier balms or sprays work mechanically rather than chemically, by flushing pollen out of the nose or by trapping it before it gets in. They contain no drugs and can be used freely alongside other treatments. On their own they tend to help mild symptoms rather than severe ones.
How The Hay-Band Compares
The Hay-Band contains no drugs, so there is no limit on how long you can wear it and nothing that becomes less effective the more you use it. Put it on at the start of your season and leave it on. It can be worn whilst taking any nasal spray.