How to Beat Hay Fever this Spring

Winter has passed, the sun is back out and the flowers are in bloom.  The air is filled with pollen, which for some goes by unnoticeable. However, for 1 in 5 people, it can trigger hay fever.

Hay fever is a type of seasonal allergic rhinitis which is at its height during springtime and summer due to the escalated amount of pollen and mould spores in the air which are breathed in by an individual.

An inside look

When an individual starts to feel the effects of hay fever, it is common to feel blocked up and swollen in the eyes, nose and throat. Those with a sensitised immune system will start producing immunoglobulin E, an antibody that attacks the pollen substance. This causes the release and overproduction of the antibodies histamine as a response made to foreign pathogens perceived as a threat (in this case, pollen) can be the cause of common symptoms of hay fever such as runny eyes and sneezing.

Common symptoms associated with hay fever are:

• Weed Pollen
• Pet Dander
• Grass Pollen
• Dust Mites
• Tree Pollen
• Spores forming from fungi or moulds

Beating the fever

Individuals who know they are susceptible to hay fever needn’t worry, as there are numerous ways to heighten the chances of an allergen free spring and avoid exposure to triggers. Whilst there is no cure for hay fever, here are some ways to avoid serious irritations.

1. Allergen Free Indoor Air: If you know that the pollen count in the air is high in your area, then it would be vital to ensure you have clean and safe air indoors. One way to achieve this is through air filtration systems, which can remove up to 95% of allergen particles from the air.
2. Minimise your susceptibility by not participating outdoor activities such as mowing the lawn, gardening or raking leaves. Ensure that you shower and wash your face after a going outside to get rid of pollen that may have gathered on your body or hair during the day.
3. Avoid hanging your clothes or bed linen outdoors as pollen may gather and build up.
4. Cut down on the time spent with pets, as their dander is known to be a trigger to hay fever. If a pet is entering your house from the outdoors, wipe their fur down with a wet cloth to try and rid it of pollen that may have collected.
5. Ensure that you have the right medical gear on hand if your reaction becomes irritating or enervating. Speak to your medical professional on how to best combat the effects of hay fever this spring.