Constant dripping or runny nose?
Stop the drip with the right antihistamines or decongestants.
Start finderTell us what you're experiencing
Quick questions about duration and severity
Personalized OTC medicine options
Colds, flu, allergies (hay fever), or cold weather. It's your body flushing out irritants.
No, most causes are viral or allergic. Antibiotics don't work for these.
Saline spray: Yes. Medicated decongestant spray: No, max 3 days to avoid rebound congestion.
Allergies: Antihistamines. Cold: Decongestant tablets (pseudoephedrine) or sprays.
Decongestant nasal sprays work fastest (minutes), but use sparingly.
Clear: Usually allergies or early viral infection.
Yellow/Green: Indicates immune system is fighting infection (viral or bacterial). It does not automatically mean you need antibiotics.
Using decongestant sprays (like Otrivin) for more than 3 days can cause Rhinitis Medicamentosa. Your nose becomes dependent on the spray and gets even more blocked when you stop. Stick to the 3-day rule!
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Everything Australians need to know about treating hay fever — from antihistamines and nasal sprays to eye drops, natural remedies, and thunderstorm asthma awareness. Includes a region-by-region pollen calendar and step-by-step treatment ladder.
Confused by the antihistamine aisle? We compare cetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine — active ingredients, drowsiness risk, prices, and which one suits you best.
We compare Australia's top hayfever nasal sprays — corticosteroid, antihistamine, and combination options. Find out which spray suits your symptoms, how to use them properly, and where to get the best value.
Not every natural hayfever remedy is backed by science. We separate the evidence-based options from the wishful thinking — covering saline irrigation, quercetin, local honey, butterbur, lifestyle changes, and when to reach for proper medication.
Last reviewed: April 2026
Reviewer: Healthcare Content Team
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.