As the Spring Bank Holiday weekend arrives, the UK is experiencing sunny weather during a heatwave with temperatures reaching 33°C in some areas. It’s important for people to manage the weekend and the challenges it brings.
Hay fever is a significant concern for many Brits, especially as temperatures rise. Claire Nevinson, a Superintendent Pharmacist at Boots, explained that hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen from certain plants, causing symptoms when pollen contacts the mouth, nose, eyes, and throat.
The severity of each year’s hay fever season is unpredictable, but weather conditions play a key role in pollen production, distribution, and dispersion. Typically, hay fever peaks between late March and September, particularly in warm, humid, and windy conditions when pollen counts are highest.
Different types of pollen trigger hay fever at various times, with tree pollen peaking from late March to mid-May, and grass and weed pollen from mid-May to September. To alleviate symptoms, experts recommend reducing exposure to pollen by staying indoors with windows and doors closed.
Experts suggest practical measures to combat hay fever without relying solely on medication. Dr. Harpreet Sarna, Chief Medical Officer at Vitality, advises showering and changing clothes after being outdoors on high pollen days. Using eye drops and applying Vaseline around the nose can help reduce symptoms.
Drying laundry indoors during high pollen counts can minimize pollen exposure on clothes and bedding. Chartered Physiotherapist Sammy Margo recommends using essential oils and cooling bed linens to control pollen in the bedroom.
Dr. Luke Powles, Associate Clinical Director at Bupa Health Clinics, warns that alcohol consumption can worsen hay fever symptoms due to histamine content and dehydration. Limiting alcohol intake, staying hydrated, and taking antihistamines can help alleviate symptoms.
Nasal rinsing with salt water can help flush out pollen and allergens trapped in the nose, relieving congestion. These preventive measures can assist in managing hay fever symptoms effectively during peak pollen periods.
