Spring has well and truly sprung. Associated with new life, this time of year sees baby lambs jumping around in fields, sumptuous blossom appearing on trees on every corner, daffodils sprouting up…
All this fresh greenery is generally lovely, however for those with an intolerance to pollen, this time of year brings unwanted sneezing, itchy eyes and a runny nose.
Hayfever is a yucky allergic condition that affects up to one in five people at some point in their life.
So what is it exactly? As part of their reproductive cycle, plants release pollen – basically a fine powder – that contains protein. These protein particles can cause the nose, eyes, throat and sinuses to become swollen and irritated.
There is good news and bad news for seasonal sneezers – there is currently no cure for hayfever, but there are plenty of ways of preventing the condition and remedies to combat its symptoms, which generally improve as sufferers get older.
Before taking any medication, please speak to your GP or pharmacist for advice and guidance.
Medication
Antihistamines
This type of medicine is used to treat common allergic health conditions. They contain “histamine”, which is a natural chemical the immune system uses to protect the body’s cells against infection. Antihistamines are frequently available in tablets, creams and nasal sprays.
Corticosteroids
Also known as steroids, these are an anti-inflammatory medicine that, as the name suggests, reduce inflammation and suppresses the immune system. Steroids are usually prescribed by the doctor because of their high strength to treat more severe health conditions.
Decongestants
These can be bought over the counter and normally available in tablet or nasal spray form. Decongestants provide short-term relief for a blocked nose.
Natural Medication
Homeopathy
Homeopathy works on the principle of “what will cause, will cure”. The theory is that a substance that, when taken in basic form, causes a set of symptoms in a healthy person, can cure similar symptoms in an illness when treated with small, diluted doses of the same substance. For hayfever sufferers, a homeopath would prescribe Arundo, for people experience burning in the palate, nose and eyes, Sabadilla for continual sneezing and runny nose, or Wyethia, for itching in the nose, roof of the mouth and throat.
Preventative measures
Vacuum cleaners
A more expensive option, but if you’re really struggling with hayfever, it may be worth investing in a powerful vacuum cleaner that has extra-strong suction and high dust removal to remove pollen from inside the house.
Acupuncture
Something a little bit more alternative, acupuncture is the practice of a trained practitioner inserting tiny, sterile needles on the skin. It is said to balance the flow of energy in the body, and a 2004 study have showed that 85% of acupuncture patients show an improvement compared to those in a placebo group.
Air Filters
Air filters cost around £80, and by leaving them on in the house, they work by trapping pollen particles so that they aren’t floating around inside the room.
