9 Ways to Manage your Hay Fever

Seasonal hay fever affects upto 25% of people in Ireland and many people rely on over the counter medicines for treatment. The symptoms of hay fever develop as a reaction to allergens in the air such as pollens. Pollen consists of tiny male cells of flowering plants. Pollen from garden flowers usually doesn’t cause allergies. However, dry pollens produced by trees, grasses and weeds can disseminate with the wind and lead to allergic symptoms.

The following are a few tips from our pharmacist to manage your hay fever symptoms effectively;

1. Bed sheets should be washed on a weekly basis.
2. Always shower and wash hair before going to bed as pollen can collect on skin and hair throughout the day.
3. Do not hang clothes outside to dry where they can trap pollens….plus your clothes would get drenched this summer!
4. Wear a filter mask when mowing or working outdoors.
5. Try to avoid peak times for pollen exposure i.e. hot, dry, windy days, usually between 10am and 4pm.
6. Keep an ear out for local pollen counts in your area
7. Perform a thorough spring cleaning of your home.
8. Pets should be kept off the furniture and out of the bedroom if they have been outdoors.
9. Check bathroom and other damp areas in the home frequently for mould and mildew and remove with non-toxic cleaner.