Runny nose and streaming eyes? Try these tips to reduce the symptoms of hay fever…
We’re all welcoming spring with open arms but let’s spare a thought for those of us who suffer from hay fever. RIP our noses.
Hay fever can make spring and summer almost unbearable at times. Sufferers can experience everything from scratchy, itchy eyes to runny noses, headaches, blocked sinuses and shortness of breath. For some people, these symptoms can be mild and, although annoying, they don’t hugely disrupt their day-to-day lives. For others, however, it can turn the outdoors into a no-go zone.
What Is Hay Fever?
Hay fever is a common allergic reaction to pollen from plants or other allergens, such as mould or house mites. Hay fever usually strikes around certain seasons. For example, grass pollen can be an issue from May to July, causing hay fever sufferers an uncomfortable summer. Read more about hay fever and its symptoms here.
Top Tips To Reduce Symptoms
Try these steps to help you manage the symptoms of hay fever:
- The most common way to treat hay fever is with antihistamines. These are small pills designed to reduce hay fever symptoms and can be bought over the counter at your local pharmacy. Sometimes, antihistamines can make you feel sleepy so be sure to talk to your pharmacist to get the best advice on which type you should take.
- Smear a thin layer of Vaseline around your nostrils. This helps to trap pollen before it gets up your nose.
- Keep your bedroom window closed through the day and night to reduce the amount of pollen getting in.
- Take a quick shower and change your clothes after being outside to get rid of any pollen lingering on your clothing or skin.
- Stay indoors on days when the pollen count is particularly high. You can check the pollen count on the daily weather report or on your phone to be more prepared for the day ahead.
- Pop on a pair of sunglasses when you’re out and about to give your eyes some extra protection.
- Avoid walking through freshly cut grass or fields.
- Dry your clothes in the house, rather than outside on the washing line.
- Avoid having fresh flowers in the house.
Do you suffer from hay fever? Do you have any tips for how to cope with the irritating symptoms? Share them with us on our socials!
