Hay Fever & Hay Fever Medications
 

What Causes Hay Fever?

Tree, Grass and Weed Pollens are the main causes of Hay Fever.
Hay Fever is usually at it's worst during the months of  late March to September, as this is when the pollen count is at it's highest.

      

Who is affected?

10-10% of the UK population is affected by Hay Fever
90-95% of Hay Fever Sufferers are allergic to grass pollens.

What Are The Symptoms?

Common symptoms of Hay Fever include;
 - Sneezing and coughing
 - Runny or blocked nose
 - Itchy, red or watery eyes
 - Itchy mouth, throat, nose, ears
 - Loss of smell
 - Pain around temples and forehead
 - headaches
 - Earache
 - Feeling tired and lathargic

Asthema Sufferers may also have
 - Tight feeling in the chest area
 - Shortness of breath
 - Wheeze and cough


Hay Fever can/may last up to several weeks or months, unlike a cold, which will usually disappear after 1-2 weeks
 

What can I do to stop it?

Whilst there currently no known cure for Hay Fever and it is not preventable. There are things that can be taken to easeor manage your symptoms;

 - A Small amount of Vaseline around our nostrils can trap pollen
 - Wear a pair of wrap around glasses to stop pollen getting into your eyes
 - Shower and change your clothes to wash off any pollen after you have been outside
 - Keep windows and door shut, as much as possible
 - Vacuum your home regularly and dust with a damp cloth
 - Use a pollen filter for the air vents in your car and use a vacuum clearner with a HEPA filter
 - Brush your pets, their fur can carry pollen

Avoid
 - Walking on grassy areas or cutting/mowing your lawn
 - Smoking or being around those who smolke
 - Drying clothes  outside
 - Keeping fresh flowers in the house
 

Over The Counter Medications

The first point of call for any Hay Fever medications, should be a pharmacist

- Pharmacist can advise you on the best medications for your own personal needs
- Medications such as anti-hystemine eye-drops, tablets and nasal sprays are available over the counter from pharmacies and supermarkets. If you are unsure of which product is the suitable for you, you can discuss with the pharmacy.

You can find additional information about Hay Fever via the NHS website