It’s Spring, which means sunshine, warmer weather and hay fever. Nearly one in every four Australians struggle with hayfever each year, with common symptoms including sneezing, runny noses and itchy eyes [1].
The biggest Spring allergy trigger is pollen. Trees, grasses and weeds release tiny grains into the air to fertilise other plants, but when the pollen enters the nose or eyes of someone with allergies, the immune system mistakes it for a threat which creates a reaction.
This leads to the release of chemicals called histamines, which trigger the all too familiar symptoms of hayfever.
Pollen can travel for miles, making it difficult to avoid, but there are ways to reduce its exposure.
Top tips for surviving seasonal allergies:
- Make a habit of checking the pollen counts.
- Don’t dry your washing in the fresh air as pollen can stick to it and you’ll bring it into your house. Instead dry bedding and clothing indoors, or in a dryer.
- If you like going for walks, stay away from grassy, open spaces, especially if the grass near your favourite walking spot has just been recently cut.
- Avoid going out just before, during or just after a thunderstorm, particularly in spring and summer.
- When outside, wear sunglasses to shield your eyes.
- Rinse your eyes with water when needed.
- Keep windows closed at home and in the car. Try using recirculating air conditioning in the car.
How can I manage my pollen allergy?
If you do suffer from hayfever, you can treat symptoms with products available at your local Blooms The Chemist.
Zaditen Sterile Eye Drops are useful for common complaints like itchy, watery, or swollen eyes. They work within minutes and the effects can last for up to twelve hours.
If symptoms persist, talk to your local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist about keeping hayfever under control - so you can enjoy the season with less itchy eyes, clearer breathing and fewer runny noses.