Hay fever: Six expert tips for managing hay fever and avoiding symptoms
HAY FEVER sufferers may find themselves coming down with allergy symptoms earlier than normal this year, as experts have warned the recent mild weather has caused a rise in pollen. One pharmacist shares six expert tips to help you manage hay fever symptoms this spring.
Pollen expert advises hay fever sufferers
Hay fever is a common pollen allergy that usually presents itself during the ‘hay fever season’ of late March to September. However, the Met Office recently warned the season may begin earlier this year due to the unseasonably mild weather in February causing a rise in pollen. Symptoms of hay fever can be extremely irritating, putting sufferers off going outside in the spring and summer months. LloydsPharmacy pharmacist Anshu Bhimbat shares six tips to help manage hay fever symptoms so you don’t have to miss out on enjoying the joys of spring.
Your local pharmacist will be able to help advise you on the best treatments as most people require a multi-method approach for hay fever
Recognise the symptoms
The first step to managing your symptoms is recognising what they are. Hay fever symptoms commonly include sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes, mouth and throat.
Be prepared
The Met Office will highlight when there is a high pollen count, so checking this daily can help you prepare with treatments and measures to prevent and minimise symptoms.
When outside, wear wraparound sunglasses to keep allergens out of your eyes.
Avoid drying clothes and bedding on your washing line when the pollen count is high as you will bring it into your home.
Avoid going out too early or late
Symptoms are often more severe during the mornings and evenings because pollen counts are at their highest before 11am and after 4.30pm.
Be wary of urban areas
Being vulnerable to hay fever is not just for those who live in the countryside; if you live in or around London or other city areas you might actually be more prone to symptoms.
“Research has shown higher pollution concentrations, particularly higher carbon dioxide in urban areas and urban climates can result in longer pollen seasons,” said Bhimbat.
Keep windows closed
Keeping windows closed at home and in the car will stop pollen from getting inside and aggravating symptoms.
See a pharmacist
There are a number of over-the-counter treatments which are specifically formulated to help treat the symptoms of hay fever.
These can include eye drops, nasal sprays and antihistamine tablets or syrups.
“Your local pharmacist will be able to help advise you on the best treatments as most people require a multi-method approach for hay fever,” said Bhimbat.