Pollen counts are already on the rise, leaving sufferers impacted weeks before they usually begin to feel the effects.
Therefore, Dr Donald Grant, GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy has explained the effects of hay fever in further detail and suggested some effective medicine for combatting the allergic reaction.
Hay fever – causes and treatments
Dr Grant said: “With reports pollen counts rising throughout the UK, it’s important to understand the treatments available to alleviate symptoms when pollen counts suddenly rise. Hay fever is an extremely common condition caused by an allergy to airborne substances such as pollen. It affects our nasal passages and causes sinus pressure, sneezing, nasal congestion, and watery eyes. If you’re suffering from these symptoms while enjoying a day out in the sun, it could be that you’re experiencing hay fever.
“This allergic reaction is difficult to avoid, particularly throughout spring and summer, but with the use of over-the-counter medicines, the symptoms can be minimalised. First, I recommend Chlorphenamine Tablets, an effective antihistamine that reduces symptoms of allergies such as sneezing, itching, and a runny nose.
“Opticrom Eye Drops are useful for providing relief to hay fever symptoms that affect the eyes. This product contains the natural ingredient sodium cromoglycate 2%, which helps to ease allergy symptoms within 2 minutes. These eye drops are also suitable for children aged 6 and above, providing relief for all the family in the warm weather.
“Additionally, Benacort Nasal Spray is perfect for targeting nasal congestion caused by hay fever. This spray provides lasting relief, reducing mucus production while improving swelling effects.
“Outside of medical treatment, keeping windows closed during days with high pollen counts, using a dehumidifier, cleaning regularly, and changing clothes after exposure to pollen are great ways of minimising hay fever triggers.”
