Summer ‘s here, sun’s out along with all of nature. And so should you be too. But for some people this can be a very miserable time due to perennial rhinitis (hayfever).

Symptoms can include runny nose, itchy/red eyes, sneezing and can be disabling.

So here’s some helpful tips to try to mitigate these troublesome symptoms.

 

Practical measures:

• Stay Indoors: when the pollen count is very high. Pollen count rises slowly during the day till midday then gradually decreases. Although conversely at night it can be very high due to a phenomenon known as “pollen shower”. Basically limit your time outdoors on high pollen days. By checking local pollen counts regularly.

• Close Windows: Keep windows and doors closed during peak pollen times, typically in the morning and on windy days.
• Use Air Conditioning: Use air conditioning in your car (and home, if you have it) to filter out pollen.
• Dry washing Indoors: Avoid hanging laundry outside where it can collect pollen.

 

 Keep things clean:

• Shower and Change Clothes: After being outside, take a shower and change your clothes to remove pollen. Also wash bedding once weekly in hot water.
• Clean Floors and Surfaces: Vacuum with a HEPA filter and dust with a damp cloth to minimise pollen and dust accumulation.

 

Self care:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help thin mucus and keep your nasal passages moist.
• Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from pollen by wearing sunglasses when you’re outdoors.

• Saline Nasal Rinse: Rinse your nasal passages with saline solution to remove allergens and reduce congestion.

 

Medication (for more resistant cases):

• Oral Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines can help reduce symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
• Nasal Sprays: Steroid nasal sprays can be very effective in reducing inflammation and congestion.
• Decongestants: Oral or nasal decongestants can provide short-term relief from a stuffy nose.
• Allergy Shots: If all this fails there are IM injections that can be given to try to minimise/prevent the symptoms from occurring in the first place.  See your GP or an allergy specialist to discuss this and more specialised treatments.