Preparing for the season of hay-fever

We spend all winter desperately waiting for Spring and Summer, and then when it finally comes along, the unlucky ones are hit with the dreaded hay-fever symptoms. Sneezing, itching nose and eyes watering – just some of the oh so familiar symptoms that have the capability of tarnishing our lovely outdoor time.

Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen, typically when it comes into contact with your mouth, nose, eyes and throat. It is usually worse between March and September, and this is important to remember when it comes to preventing severe hay-fever symptoms. Unfortunately, there is no cure for hay-fever, however, there are a variety of things you can try to ease your symptoms when the pollen count is high.

In terms of medical options, there are several options such as allergy tablets, nasal sprays and eye drops. If you're unsure which is the best option for you, the best option is to speak to your local pharmacist and they can talk you through the different options. If you can, it can be beneficial to determine what specifically you are allergic to; for example some people have allergies to grass or weeds, whereas some people are allergic to specific tree types such as Birch, Cedar and Oak Trees. By determining what you are reacting to, you can try and limit your contact with the specific triggers. Different plants also pollinate at different times of year which means that you can better predict when you are going to be suffering with symptoms if you know what you are reactive to.

When it comes small changes you can make to help you deal with your hay-fever symptoms, The NHS recommends the following:

Do:

• Try putting Vaseline around your nostrils to trap pollen

• Shower and change your clothes after you've been outside to wash off pollen

• Keep windows and doors shut where possible

• Vacuum and dust with a damp cloth regularly

• Wash your hands frequently

Don't:

• Don't cut grass

• Don't keep fresh flowers in the house

• Don't smoke or be around smoke, as it can make symptoms worse

• Don't dry your clothes outside

• Don't touch your face, and avoid rubbing your eyes and nose

The general guidance for seeking further help is that it may be appropriate if hay-fever is:

• Getting in the way of your daily life

• Making it hard for you to sleep

• Not improving with your allergy medication

• Your symptoms are getting worse

Hay-fever shouldn't have the ability to ruin your Spring and Summertime; whatever you choose to do, we hope you are able to manage your symptoms and get to enjoy the great outdoors.