More than 20 million people could suffer from hay fever this summer with grass pollen being the biggest culprit. A poll of 2,000 British hay fever sufferers revealed that two-fifths (41 percent) of them experience the condition so badly that it ruins their summer. The Met Office forecasts that levels will be relatively low throughout the UK for today. However, by Sunday and Monday the levels are set to increase to moderate levels but only in the regions of London and South East England. The rest of the UK will have low levels of pollen for the next few days.
NHS said: “You should speak to your pharmacist if you have hay fever. They can give you advice and suggest the best treatments like antihistamine drops, tablets or nasal sprays which will help with itchy and watery eyes, sneezing and a blocked nose.”
Other treatments to help combat the symptoms of hay fever include:
Home remedies
Suffering from a blocked nose or congestion then trying to inhale some steam might help.
This is done by holding your head over a bowl of hot water, or taking a steamy shower.
The steam softens the mucous membranes, and work to regulate drainage, unblocking the nasal passages. You could also try spicy foods which works as a natural decongestant.
Herbal remedies
There are certain herbal remedies which may relieve the symptoms of hay fever which are medically licensed.
Pollinosan Hayfever Relief Tablets are composed of seven different types of herbs and are non-drowsy solutions.
Pollinosan tablets can also be used with Pollinosan Luffa nasal spray and works to cleanse the nasal passages of potential allergens and irritants.
Conventional medicines
These conventional medicines aim at treating the hay fever symptoms and revolve around antihistamines.
These can be bought over the counter but could have side effects including lethargy and drowsiness and therefore should not be taken if you will be driving or operating heavy machinery.
If the drowsy side effect persists you should speak with your doctor who may prescribe you steroids which must not be taken for more than ten days in a row.
Many pollens cause eye problems, including a noncontagious form of pink eye. The high humidity makes symptoms worse and also contributes to mold growth which triggers the symptoms.
Pollen count is highest between 5am and 10am.
Symptoms of hay fever include:
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Itchy throat and eyes
- Wheezing
