Avoid the misery of suffering with hay fever this summer!
Summer is finally here but the sunshine and higher temperatures also brings misery to the millions of people that suffer from hay fever. It’s a common allergy that causes sneezing, coughing and itchy eyes. It’s usually worse between late March and September, especially when it’s warm, humid, and windy. This is when the pollen count is at its highest.
You can’t cure hay fever but there are things you can easily do to help you or your family’s symptoms and it only involves a trip to your local pharmacist or supermarket.
NHS Greater Manchester says reduce the symptoms of hay fever by taking some basic precautions, such as:
- wearing wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting in your eyes when you are outdoors.
- changing your clothes and taking a shower after being outdoors to remove the pollen on your body
- where possible, stay indoors on days when the pollen count is high.
Speak to a pharmacist, they can give you advice and suggest the best treatments to help with your symptoms, such as antihistamine drops, tablets or nasal sprays.
If you can’t reduce your symptoms by using over the counter medicines or if you experience persistent complications of hay fever, such as worsening of asthma or repeated episodes of sinusitis you should make an appointment to see your GP. You can also call 111 or use NHS 111 online for immediate advice.
Don’t suffer in silence
Dr Manisha Kumar, NHS Greater Manchester’s Chief Medical Officer said; “Hay fever symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny noses and sneezing can cause real misery to adults and children.
“But there is no reason to suffer in silence, as your local high street pharmacists have a range of treatments to help ease your symptoms. Anyone with asthma should keep their blue reliever inhaler with them at all times in case of an emergency as hay fever can make it worse. Help yourself or your family stay well this summer.”
Hay Fever and Allergic Rhinitis
