Don’t let hay fever control you this season
DID YOU KNOW?
Hay fever is the common name for allergic rhinitis. It is an allergic reaction in the nose, throat and eyes.
Most people associate hay fever with spring, when airborne pollens from grasses are highest. However, hay fever can occur at any time of the year.
Common allergic triggers include:
pollens from trees, plants and grasses
dust mites
mould
animal hair or fur.
Suggestions to prevent or limit the symptoms of hay fever include:
stay indoors as much as possible on windy days in spring
keep windows and doors shut when pollen count is high
identifying the cause of the allergy and avoiding further contact with it
start treatment early and take it regularly, especially if you know you will be exposed to triggers.
Common, over-the-counter hay fever medicines include:
antihistamine tablets – which may ease mild symptoms
steroid nasal sprays – one of the most effective treatments when used regularly
nasal irrigation – can relieve sinus symptoms
eye drops – may help relieve swollen, itchy, red or watery eyes.
HEALTH ADVICE
