Ways to combat hayfever

With spring around the corner it’s time to get proactive in beating hayfever before it beats you! There’s nothing worse than getting all excited for sunshiny days only to be all stuffed up with nasal congestion and watery, itchy eyes.

Here are a few ways to combat hayfever this season so that you can enjoy the warm weather without having to worry about sneezing and coughing your way into summer.

When the weather is warm and the pollen count is high you may experience the following symptoms: frequent sneezing; stuffed or runny nose; itchy, watery eyes; itchy throat and coughing; headaches; and fatigue. These are all symptoms of hayfever which can last for months! Even though you can’t prevent it you can ease your symptoms or try to avoid it.

Antihistamines

There are plenty of over the counter antihistamines to treat hayfever symptoms. You can also use saline nasal sprays. Simply chat to your nearest pharmacist.

Many antihistamines, however, can make you feel drowsy so there are a number of ways for you to stay sneeze-free without necessarily having to resort to medication.

Hayfever prevention tips

Where possible, both in your car and at home, keep your windows closed.
Apply Vaseline to the openings of your nostrils in order to trap pollen and avoid it entering your respiratory system.
If you are allergic to pollen it might be wise to stay indoors when the pollen count is high. Try to avoid gardens and other outdoor spaces where flowers are beginning to bloom. Keep an eye on the weather forecast so you know when the pollen count will be high so that you can stay indoors as much as possible on those days.

Try to avoid mowing or cutting the grass or even being around newly mowed grass. You should also avoid keeping fresh flowers in the house.
After you’ve been out for the day make sure to take a shower and change your clothing so that you can wash off and be free of any pollen. You should also wipe your pets down with a damp cloth when they come inside.
If you have to be outdoors on high pollen days you can wear a surgical mask. They are relatively inexpensive and can be bought at your local pharmacy. Wearing sunglasses may also help to stop pollen from affecting your eyes.
Keep your home clear of dust by vacuuming regularly and using an air filter.

Eat plenty of curry with chillies and spices such as Turmeric as both are believed to reduce inflammation and open up the nasal passages. Some other foods that contain natural antihistamines and are known to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation include capers, ginger, garlic, honey, red grapes, fish, chamomile tea, red onion, watercress, apples, tomatoes and oranges. You can also boost your immune system by taking echinacea regularly.

If your symptoms become unbearable or you experience earache, wheezing, tightness in your chest and shortness of breath you might want to consider consulting with your doctor as you might have an ear infection or asthma and require prescription medication.

Please note: This information is not a real substitute for professional medical care and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any illnesses. It is purely for informational purposes only.

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