It seems like only yesterday we were shovelling snow off our paths and wrapping up in thermals, but all of a sudden spring is here and with it brings the pollen that causes hay fever, and misery.
The balmier climes we have been seeing recently mean trees have burst into flower and the pollen levels have risen. Millions of Brits suffer with itchy eyes, a runny nose, headaches and irritating sneezes every summer, so we have had a look at why and what you can do to deal with the pain of hay fever.
Hay fever tends to start in late March and can last until the end of September, with things being worse when it’s warm, humid and windy as this is when the pollen count is at its highest.
Unlike a cold, which tends to last for a week or two, hay fever sticks around for longer.
The typical symptoms of hay fever include sneezing, coughing and a runny and/or blocked nose. Itchy, red, watery eyes are a constant feature and headaches as well as pain around the forehead and temples can make days drag.
A sore throat as well as ear ache and a poor sense of smell can leave you feeling tired and irritable – well is it little wonder?
One of the many frustrating things is that because Mother Nature is at the heart of this condition, hay fever cannot be prevented and there is no cure because the symptom causing pollen is in the air.
There are however things that can help you get the situation under control.
Try putting Vaseline around your nostrils as this can trap pollen before it gets into your nose and we also like the HayMax organic allergen barrier balm which you can buy in most chemists. They might not be on trend, but wraparound sunglasses can help stop the pollen getting in your eyes. It might seem extreme but shower and change your clothes when you’ve been outside as this will wash away pollen Boring maybe, but when pollen levels are high, why not stay indoors and get those jobs done that were on your list all winter. Keeping windows and doors closed helps the situation, as does vacuming and dusting.
There are also some golden ‘don’ts’ that you might not of considered but could help you feel better. Don’t cut the grass or walk on grass as this can really lead to problems. They are pretty, but don’t have fresh flowers in the house, smoking is always a bad idea and really won’t help hay fever, and don’t dry your clothes outside as they will pick up pollen which you will then ingest.
Even with all of these steps taken, you may well still find pollen gets to you and makes you feel grotty and unable to get on with life.
You can take over the counter products from the chemist and your Pharmacist will be able to talk you though painkillers as well as antihistamine drops, tablets or nasal sprays which can all ease symptoms.
If nothing takes the edge off things, you may want to speak to your GP and they can prescribe stronger medication.
We hope this helps you on your hay fever journey and remember, we are always here to pamper you if you are feeling less than 100%.
The Salon Team
Last updated on 01/05/2018.