DESPITE some cooler temperatures this season, it hasn’t prevented high levels of pollen from affecting those who suffer from seasonal allergies.
Hay fever is the most common, affecting one in four of us, and symptoms can make life very difficult for sufferers.
It can come and go at any time in life, so for those that haven’t had it before it can take you by surprise.
Hay fever is caused by an allergic reaction to pollen and the hay fever season lasts for several months, with tree pollen released in the spring, grass pollen in late spring and summer, and tree pollen in the autumn.
Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes as pollen causes the nose, eyes, throat and sinuses to become swollen, irritated and inflamed.
For most people suffering from seasonal hay fever, you don’t need to see your GP, many treatments are available from your local pharmacy or supermarket.
Your local pharmacy can offer useful advice on treatments for hay fever.
Antihistamines are commonly used, as they block the action of the chemical histamine, which the body releases when it thinks it is under attack from an allergen like pollen.
Decongestants can also help to relieve a blocked nose which is often caused by hay fever, dust allergies and pet allergies.
For those already taking regular medication, pharmacists can also advise on the most appropriate treatments that won’t interfere with it.
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As well as seeking advice from your local pharmacist to ease your symptoms, you can take some basic precautions to help prevent hay fever, including:
- Applying a small amount of Vaseline (petroleum gel) below the nostrils to trap pollen grains
- Wearing wrap-around sunglasses to stop pollen getting in your eyes
- Take a shower and change your clothes after being outdoors
- Try to stay indoors when the pollen count is particularly high.
- For more information about hay fever and to find your nearest pharmacy visit www.nhs. uk.
DR WILL TAYLOR
NHS HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE
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