For most people, the arrival of summer is one of the best times of the year, as warmer weather and longer days mark the end of the cold and dark months. For many, however, summer also heralds the start of the allergies season when pollen levels soar, triggering sneezing, runny noses, and itchy and watering eyes – a reaction that can be as relentless as it is distressing.
In this article, we’ll explore some steps you can take to alleviate the unpleasantness of summer allergies.
How To Stop Summer Allergies In Their Track
Unfortunately, as the causes of summer allergies in the UK vary, there is no magic cure to the problem. Instead, you can follow some or all of the following steps to see whether some relief is afforded:
Avoid The Trigger
Steering clear of locations most likely to exacerbate your symptoms may not be practical for some people, but it can be an effective strategy when hay fever is at its worst. Parks, gardens, meadows, and grassland in particular should be avoided; however, be aware that many people are susceptible to different stimulants, such as certain types of trees or grasses, so try to identify areas that make your symptoms worse. Beaches and swimming pools are suitable alternatives for hay fever sufferers as they are exposed to fewer allergens here.
Take Preventive Steps
Allergy symptoms can be relieved by taking certain preventive measures. The NHS suggests:
Consuming foods high in Omega 3 and 6, such as fish (salmon, mackerel, or herring), nuts (walnuts and almonds), soybeans, eggs, chia seeds, and leafy green vegetables, as these may relieve some symptoms of allergies, such as watering eyes.
Put petroleum jelly (Vaseline) around your nostrils to trap pollen.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes and nose.
Keep windows and doors closed if possible.
Ensure your car’s pollen filter is renewed periodically.
Undergo Allergy Testing
For many hay fever sufferers, allergy testing is not always necessary, but it can be a useful tool to help you to identify the trigger and select the best treatment for the condition. In skin prick tests, which are simple and painless to carry out, small quantities of different allergens are placed on the skin to assess whether a reaction occurs. For more detailed insights, blood tests can be conducted to determine which allergens are most likely to trigger a reaction.
Take Hay Fever Treatments
Several different hay fever treatments are available at your local community pharmacy which can help to prevent or relieve symptoms. For example, antihistamines can be taken daily to lessen your symptoms, while nasal sprays can relieve stuffiness and improve breathing. In a severe allergic reaction, immunotherapy treatment may be an option if medications have proved to be ineffective.
For more information on your treatment options, consult your GP or pharmacist.
Find Out More
To find out more about what other health tests that your pharmacy should always keep on hand, please call Suresign today on 02825 685385.
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