As spring approaches, many of us are looking forward to warmer weather and longer days, but for those who suffer from hayfever, it’s a time to prepare for the onslaught of sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses. However, this year could be worse than usual for hayfever sufferers due to a variety of factors, including climate change and air pollution. In this article, we’ll explore why your hayfever could be worse this year and provide some tips on how to prepare for the upcoming season.
As the seasons change and temperatures rise, many of us are finding ourselves battling the dreaded symptoms of hay fever: runny noses, watery eyes, sneezing and coughing. This is especially true during spring, when both tree and grass pollen are released into the air. If you’re allergic to these proteins, your nose, eyes, throat and sinuses can become swollen, irritated and inflamed, leading to uncomfortable and disruptive symptoms.
According to Dr Nisa Aslam, a GP from Typharm’s Skin Life Sciences Foundation, climate change is partly responsible for the recent high pollen count, which is causing many people to suffer from hay fever. In addition, the pollen season is getting longer, meaning allergy sufferers are having to cope with their symptoms for more extended periods of time. People who suffer from hay fever may also have an underlying problem with their immune system. Those with a family history of not just hay fever, but also skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, may be particularly susceptible to these allergies.
Furthermore, weather conditions can have a significant impact on hay fever symptoms. While regular rainfall can decrease the overall pollen count, intermittent wet days can ultimately lead to a more severe hay fever season. In contrast, higher than average temperatures can cause a sudden spike in symptoms, particularly for those allergic to birch pollen.
To manage these symptoms, Dr Aslam recommends avoiding exposure to the pollen that affects you the most, checking daily pollen forecasts and keeping all windows shut during peak pollen hours. Additionally, preventive medicines such as steroid nasal sprays may be used one to two weeks before symptoms start. Alternatively, natural nasal sprays can form a protective film in our inner nose, preventing allergens from entering our respiratory system. Vaseline may also be used as a pollen trap, while wraparound sunglasses can help prevent pollen from getting into our eyes.
If you’re suffering from hay fever, there are many ways to help alleviate your symptoms. A combination of preventative measures and the right medication can help you stay healthy and comfortable during even the most severe allergy season.
In conclusion, there are several reasons why your hayfever could be worse than usual this year, from changing weather patterns to increased pollution levels. However, with the right preparation and management strategies, you can minimize your symptoms and enjoy the warmer weather without suffering from hayfever. Whether it’s seeking medical advice, keeping an eye on local pollen levels or taking precautions when spending time outdoors, there are plenty of steps you can take to ensure a comfortable hayfever season. So don’t let hayfever spoil your summer – take action now and be prepared!
