Despite many people welcoming warmer temperatures and sunny conditions, the arrival of summer can trigger some uncomfortable symptoms among many Brits. Hayfever, which is known medically as allergic rhinitis, is thought to affect 16 million people in Britain.
The frustrating condition is an allergic reaction to pollen and can cause symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, sore eyes, an itchy throat and headache, to name a few.
Although there is no cure, there are known ways to help manage and ease symptoms – including two over-the-counter drugs.
Jana Abelovska, superintendent pharmacist at Click Pharmacy, recommended the best ways to treat hay fever.
She said: “Hay fever is extremely common, with around one in five people experiencing symptoms at least once in their lives.
“It is actually a form of tree and grass pollen allergy, which is why it tends to be more common in those that are more susceptible to allergic reactions – such as those with eczema or asthma.
“Typically, hay fever is most prominent from March to September. This is because, during this time, trees and flowers alike are in full bloom, releasing pollen into the air.
“The warmer, more humid weather creates upward currents which help the pollen to travel further, and that is often how we come into contact with it.
“Symptoms can range from mild to severe, with common side effects including itchy, irritated eyes, sneezing, runny noses, and even a cough. In some cases, this can lead to inflamed sinuses, headaches, earache, and facial pain.
“Thankfully, there are some pretty effective ways to combat these unwanted symptoms.”
She specifically recommended two medications for treating hay fever, both of which can be bought over-the-counter in pharmacies.
“One of the best ways to reduce the effects of hay fever is by taking antihistamines,” Jana said.
“In particular, cetirizine and loratadine are recommended for use in treating hay fever – both of which can be found easily at any local pharmacy, and even most supermarkets.
“Some find that one works better than the other, so it is worth giving each a try to find which is more effective for you.”
However, she did note some potential side effects. Jana said: “While cetirizine is non-drowsy, it is known to make one in 10 people feel tired – meaning it is not advisable to take if you are likely to be driving, or working with heavy machinery.
“Loratadine, on the other hand, is another non-drowsy antihistamine which can also still cause tiredness – though this is far less common at around one in 100 people.”
She continued: “Additionally, there are also steroidal nasal sprays and calming eye drops that can help to reduce the effects of a pollen reaction.
“A pharmacist will be able to advise you on the best products for your symptoms. And, if you’d rather not take any medications, there are also a range of tricks people can use to feel more comfortable during the hay fever months.”
She recommended:
- Putting Vaseline around the edge of your nostrils to trap pollen
- Wearing wraparound sunglasses to keep pollen out of the eyes
- Taking a shower and changing your clothes as soon as you get home
- Vacuum more regularly and dust furniture with a slightly damp cloth.