Hayfever Season

It has already been a tough year for hayfever sufferers and with storms brewing in the UK, this may worsen. We are here to provide advice about how to prevent and manage this common but often irritating condition.

What is hayfever?

Hayfever, or allergic rhinitis, is the body’s allergic response to a range of triggers commonly found around us. Although more often associated with the Spring and Summer months, depending on your trigger, you could be affected by the symptoms throughout the year.

Common triggers include pollen, house dust mites and animal hair.

What symptoms are associated with hayfever?

Symptoms can vary from person to person but are most often:

  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose
  • Blocked nose
  • Itchy or watering eyes
  • Sore throat
  • Cough

You might also have other members of your family who suffer from hayfever and it can be associated with conditions, such as asthma and eczema.

What can I do about hayfever?

  • Avoid your trigger
    • Easier said than done, especially if you find dust or pollen sets you off
    • Avoid mowing the law and spending too much time outdoors
    • Put vaseline around your nostrils to trap pollen
    • Wash clothes worn outside to remove pollen
    • Keep windows shut as much as possible
  • Medications
    • Anti-histamines
      • These are readily available from your local pharmacy and come in tablet, intra-nasal spray and eye drop form
      • You can choose a product depending on which symptoms you need to target
    • Steroids
      • These can be used if your symptoms are worsening or not improving with regular anti-histamines
      • You would need to see your GP about starting one of these medications

 

Hayfever can worsen your enjoyment of the Summer but there are ways of managing this.

Please visit Duncans Pharmacy where one of our colleagues will be happy to give you more advice