As spring gets closer, hayfever and other seasonal allergies start to become more prominent for many of us. The warmer weather leads to higher levels of pollen, dust, and other allergens which can cause discomfort. However, there are effective strategies to minimise symptoms. These range from small lifestyle changes to over-the-counter treatments. Read below to learn how to prevent hayfever.
Understanding Hayfever
Hay fever, known as allergic rhinitis, shows itself through symptoms such as sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, and sinus pressure. It’s mainly triggered by pollen from flowers, trees, grasses, and weeds, which are more commonly found during spring and summer.
Home Remedies
- Limit your exposure: Close windows and doors on days with high pollen counts to keep allergens out.
- Invest in a good air purifier: These can also help remove pollen particles from the air indoors.
- Clean regularly: Washing bedding, curtains, and clothing regularly reduces any allergen build-ups.
- Shower before bed: Showering at night before going to bed helps to remove pollen from hair and skin.
- Pollen barriers: Using a small amount of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, around the nostrils keeps pollen particles out of nasal passages.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can thin mucus, which helps reduce congestion and pressure in the sinuses.
- Consider medicinal solutions: Over-the-counter medicine like antihistamines can alleviate your symptoms further.
- Seek professional advice: For severe or persistent symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider for tailored advise and stronger medication is recommended.
Medical Treatment Alternatives
If home remedies aren’t working for you, your symptoms aren’t reduced enough or you’re unsure how to reduce hayfever in the best way for you, over the counter medicine is available to help assist these lifestyle changes and help you enjoy spring as much as possible.
Medicines that can help include:
- Antihistamines: These can reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose effectively.
- Nasal corticosteroids: These are beneficial for preventing and relieving nasal inflammation.
- Nasal decongestants: These can address and reduce congestion in the sinuses.
You can get treatment and advice for hayfever via the Common Ailments Scheme, which can be accessed at your local pharmacy. Find out more about the Common Ailments Scheme.
Embracing the Season
These strategies can significantly reduce your reaction to spring allergies and reduce the limitations on enjoying the season.
Find further medical advice on how to reduce hayfever, visit your local pharmacy; you can find a list of pharmacies here. For severe or persistent hayfever call your practice to arrange an appointment with your GP, and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.