Life

Pollen tips hay-fever sufferers can count on

As the pollen count rises, it's a tough time for hay fever sufferers. Kate Whiting sources expert tips to keep allergy symptoms at bay

When the sun comes out at this time of year, so too does the pollen
When the sun comes out at this time of year, so too does the pollen When the sun comes out at this time of year, so too does the pollen

THE sunshine has finally popped out to say hello, but so too have the weeds, trees and grasses with all their sneeze-inducing pollen, just wafting around in the summer breeze. For Britain's 16 million hay-fever sufferers, this time of year can be an actual headache, not to mention the streaming nose, red, itchy eyes and blocked ears that usually strike too.

But by taking some simple steps, anyone experiencing hay fever symptoms should be able to manage the condition and make the most of the long, hot summer too. Help manage hay fever with these tricks and tips from Allergy UK:

  • Check the forecast

Monitor pollen forecasts daily and stay indoors wherever possible when the count is high (generally on warmer, dry days). Rain washes pollen from the air, so counts should be lower on cooler, wet days.

  • Stay off the grass

Limit time spent in rural areas. Sea breezes blow pollen inland, so escape to the coast instead.

  • Wash it away

Use a saline nasal wash to remove pollens and allergens.

  • Put up the barriers

Apply an effective allergen barrier balm around the edge of each nostril to trap or block pollens and other allergens and help prevent a reaction. Allergen barriers are available as balms or gel nasal sprays and some people have found petroleum jelly can help.

  •  Get yourself in a spin

On high pollen days, shower and wash your hair after arriving home and change your clothing.

  • Keep windows closed

If you're indoors, shut the windows. This is most important in the early mornings, when pollen is being released, and in the evening when the air cools and pollens that have been carried up into the air begin to fall to ground level again.

  • Purify your air

If you suffer symptoms indoors, a good air filter should help. Choose one that is proven to trap even small particles (see allergyuk.org website for lists of approved air filters).

  •  Ditch the garden chores

Avoid mowing lawns or raking leaves yourself. If you must perform these tasks, use a filtration face mask.

  • Keep your eyes covered

Wear wraparound sunglasses when outdoors, to keep pollen allergens out of your eyes.

  •  Reach your peak

A hat with a peak or large brim can help keep pollens from your eyes and face.

  • Be clever with your clothes drying

Avoid drying washing on a clothes-line outside when pollen counts are high.

  • Ride in comfort

Pollen counts tend to be high along roads with grass verges (dual-carriageways, motorways). Keep car windows closed and the air intake on 'recirculate' when driving. Choose a car that is fitted with an effective pollen filter, or get an in-car air filter.

  •  Buy make-up that won't irritate

Choose hypo-allergenic eye make-up, especially mascara.

  • Puppy power

Don't let pets get close to your face, as they can carry pollen in their fur. Wipe pets' coats with a damp microfibre cloth to remove pollens when they have been out.

  •  Swim sensibly

Use goggles when swimming, whether in the sea or in a pool.