For hay fever and asthma sufferers, it’s never good news when you hear those dreaded words on the radio … “the pollen count will be high today”. But rest assured there are some very useful tips and tricks to help you survive. And if things get too unbearable, you can always speak with your local pharmacist who will advise you on the right anti-histamines for your allergy symptoms.
Signs & symptoms of hay fever
Allergic reactions from hay fever usually happen quickly, within a few minutes of exposure to pollen. The most common symptoms can include:
– Sneezing.
– Runny or blocked nose.
– Red, itchy, watery eyes.
– Fatigue.
– Headaches.
Tips & advice for hay fever sufferers
In many cases, the most effective way of managing your hay fever is to try to avoid the allergen that causes the reaction whenever possible. These are a just few examples of how to help limit exposure to allergens:
– Keep windows closed in your bedroom at night.
– Stay indoors as much as possible on high pollen days.
– Don’t keep fresh flowers in the home or office.
– Try to avoid grassy areas, don’t cut grass or walk on grass.
– Put Vaseline around your nostrils to trap pollen.
– Wear wrap-around sunglasses to stop pollen getting into your eyes.
– Shower, wash your hair and change your clothes if you have been outside for an extended period.
– Avoid drying clothes outside, or shake them outdoors before bringing them in to your home.
– Keep pets outdoors as much as possible and wash them regularly.
– Minimize your contact with pets who have been outdoors and are likely to be carrying pollen.
– Vacuum your house regularly and dust surfaces with a damp cloth.
– Consider a purifier with a built-in air quality sensor to remove allergens and pollutants from the air.
Treatments for hay fever
There are also a range of very effective over the counter remedies and treatments available from your local Haven Pharmacy to help reduce the symptoms of hay fever and other allergies. Or you can visit our online store and shop for hay fever treatments there too, and have them delivered right to your door.
* Please ask your local pharmacist if you would like advice on which treatment is best suited to your needs.
