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Spring is here! After a long winter, it can feel like a big breath of fresh air when the skies become blue, the flowers start to appear, and the weather gets warmer. But spring can also be a miserable time for hay fever sufferers – the constant sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose during the spring season is enough to drive anyone crazy. However, over the years, people have discovered a number of effective ways to manage their symptoms. In this article, you will learn a number of tips to manage your hay fever symptoms both pharmaceutically and holistically.

What is hay fever?

Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen. The hay fever season normally starts in March and April and can last all the way through to September. During this season, the pollen count in the air is high, and this triggers allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to pollen. Symptoms include sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy red eyes, an itchy throat, mouth, nose, and ears, loss of smell or taste, and fatigue. Many people find the symptoms so troublesome that it impacts their sleep and work. 

hay-fever-treatments-guide
Photo by Dominika Gregušová on Pexels.com

Hay fever hacks 

Preventing hay fever symptoms can be challenging, but there are some things you can do to reduce your exposure to pollen, such as checking the pollen count each day. If it’s looking like it will be high, reduce your time outdoors and stay inside if you can – especially in the morning and evening when pollen counts are highest! It can also be a good idea to keep windows and doors closed during the summer to prevent pollen from entering your home. If it’s too hot to do this, it might be worth investing in an air purifier to remove pollen from the air.

Prescription medications

If over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines and decongestants, are not effective, you may need to visit your doctor. Sometimes people need stronger medication to manage their symptoms, such as steroid sprays or even immunotherapy, which involves getting regular injections of allergens to desensitize the body to pollen.

Many people suffer from hay fever, but if you’re struggling and don’t want to wait for an appointment with your doctor, you could get quick access to the treatment you need with online GP appointments. Speaking to a doctor virtually means you can avoid the wait times while getting access to doctors and nurses and receive prescriptions, sick notes, and referral letters. 

Natural remedies

Sometimes it’s the old ways that are the best – everybody has heard of hot water with honey and lemon for a sore throat for a reason! There are several natural remedies that can help relieve hay fever symptoms. Although not as scientifically backed as pharmaceutical treatments, many people say they make a big difference. 

  1. Try eating local honey, as it can help desensitize the body to the pollen in the air. Check out your nearest farm shop or do some research online to see if there are any local beekeepers. 
  2. If you’re suffering from congestion, a nasal wash could help flush out pollen and help with blockages. It involves flushing the sinuses with a saline solution and can be a game changer. 
  3. Along the timelines is steam inhalation, which involves inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water. Like the nasal wash, it can help relieve congestion and soothe inflamed nasal passages without being as invasive. It’s also really good for your skin and complexion!
  4. Try taking natural supplements like quercetin and vitamin C. Both are natural antihistamines and can help reduce inflammation.

Carol
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