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My biggest tips to fight sneezing and itchy eyes as a lifelong sufferer of hay fever
The final weeks of March officially signal the start of hay fever season, which runs all the way until September, and as a lifelong sufferer of the condition, I have relied on a trusted set of tips to help alleviate the frustrating symptoms.
Also known as allergic rhinitis, hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen that is released by plants at certain times of the year, usually when the weather is warm, humid and windy. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, a runny or blocked nose as well as itchy eyes and a scratchy throat among others. This means that while most people look forward to spring and summer, those with hay fever find themselves dreading the warmer months of the year – but with the right measures in place, there is no need to worry.
My biggest tips for fighting hay fever
For as long as I can remember I have suffered from hay fever and if left untreated, the condition means my summer days are filled with the agony of having itchy eyes for hours on end, a constantly runny nose and never-ending sneezing fits that are only exacerbated by a scratchy throat that also causes me to cough.
Thankfully, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms of hay fever and I have used several methods over the years that work in one way or another.
Medication
Undoubtedly the most helpful way to combat hay fever, for me at least, is with medication such as antihistamine pills, anti-allergy eye drops and nasal sprays.
On days when the pollen count is at its highest or if I know Im going to be spending an extended period of time near pollen-producing plants, such as when heading to a sports game, Ill always make sure to prepare by using medication.
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Stay indoors
This may seem like a given but staying indoors to keep clear of offending plants when the pollen count is high can be a huge help when it comes to alleviating hay fever symptoms.
Combined with keeping windows closed, you can create a nice, pollen-free zone for yourself.
Of course, we may have no choice but to venture outside and the summer heat means that opening a window to keep cool may be a necessity, which is why I also keep a stock of hay fever meds just in case.
Do not keep fresh flowers in the house
As an extension of the above point, keeping fresh flowers in the house can completely negate the benefit of staying indoors.
Wash the pollen away
If Ive just got home from a sports game or have paid a visit to the local park, the first thing Ill do is either wash my face or take a shower.
Both methods can help to wash away the pollen thats on or near my face and when combined with a change of clothes, it helps to keep myself away from any pollen that I may have picked up on my clothing while out and about.
Wear sunglasses while outside
Not only do sunglasses help to shade your eyes from the sun but the lenses can block out some of the pollen that would otherwise have found its way into your eyes.
Regularly vacuum and dust the house
Keeping a tidy home is great advice for life in general but it can also be hugely beneficial for hay fever sufferers.
This helps to clean up any pollen that has found its way indoors as well as any dust that might trigger your allergies too.
When dusting, using a damp cloth can be incredibly effective as it stops any dust or pollen particles from getting brushed up into the air.
Dont get too cozy with your pets
While we all love a nice cuddle with our furry friends, animals can potentially bring pollen into the home in their coats, particularly if youve just been out for a walk with your dog or if your cat enjoys lounging in the garden while soaking up some sun.
Other tips
Beyond my own personal tips for combatting hay fever above, various healthcare organizations around the world have their own advice on how to alleviate the symptoms.
For example, the UKs National Health Service (NHS) recommends:
- Putting Vaseline around your nostrils to help trap pollen.
- Buy a pollen filter for your cars air vents to stop particles from getting to you while driving.
- Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA [high-efficiency particulate air] filter.
- Do not dry clothes outside as they can catch pollen
- Avoid smoking as it can exacerbate symptoms
Hopefully, the various tips above can help you to combat hay fever this allergy season but if your symptoms persist or if theyre not responding to medication, you may need to contact a medical professional for further advice.
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