Hay Fever
The hay fever season is beginning with the
first of the tree pollens. If you suffer with
hay fever, here are some tips in dealing with
the problem:
Pollen avoidance - Check
your local pollen count (www.pollenforecast.org)
and, if it is high, stay indoors with the
windows closed, or at least away from heavily
planted open spaces. Levels are usually highest
in the mornings and on windy days. If you do go
out, shower and wash your hair once you get
home. You can also try wrap-around sunglasses if
you suffer from itchy eyes. Stay indoors when
the grass is being mown, and bring in washing
before pollen levels increase at night. Plan a
holiday by the sea or somewhere where pollen
seasons are earlier, to avoid symptoms.
Drug treatments - They
include antihistamine tablets and nasal sprays,
which calm the body's allergic reaction – older
tablets can cause drowsiness, so choose a newer
type such as cetirizine or loratadine, both of
which can be bought over the counter.
Corticosteroid nasal sprays (over-the-counter
versions include beclometasone and fluticasone)
can relieve a runny or blocked nose; for maximum
effect start taking them a fortnight before you
expect to get symptoms. These sprays can cause
mild irritation and nosebleeds in some people
and should not be taken in high doses for
lengthy periods. Eye drops containing sodium
cromoglicate (Opticrom Allergy) or
antihistamines (Otrivine) will help with itchy
eyes.
There is more information on the Fallodon Way
website –
www.fwmc.org.uk and click “clinical
information”
Please note that patients who are exempt from
prescription charges can receive FREE treatment
directly from the pharmacy, without having to
consult a doctor. This applies to children over
the age of 6.
If over-the-counter treatments are not
helping, or you have questions you wish to ask
you can book an appointment with the doctor to
discuss.
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