3 Ways to Keep Hay Fever at Bay

3 Ways to Keep Hay Fever at Bay

Hay fever is something that many people suffer from for quite a big chunk of the year. It’s estimated that 15 million people in the UK are affected by hay fever, with grass pollen being by far the biggest trigger. It’s usually worse during Spring and Summer when the pollen count is at its highest and the weather is warm and humid. Windy weather conditions can make it worse too.

Common hay fever symptoms include sneezing, coughing, runny or blocked nose, itchy, red, or watery eyes, itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears, loss of smell, headaches, earache and generally feeling more tired. People who have asthma too usually suffer even more and can have more serious symptoms such as wheezing, tightness in their chest and feeling short of breath.

My husband has had hay fever since he was a child and has many of the symptoms above each year and I have started experiencing more hay fever symptoms myself over the past few years too. So far, they’re relatively mild for me – fingers crossed they stay that way.

1 | Stay one step ahead

Keep an eye on pollen levels and weather predictions before you plan your day and limit outdoor activities during the early morning hours (5am-10am) which is when pollen counts are usually at their highest.

Do as much prevention as possible to avoid irritation. Things you can do include keeping windows closed, drying your washing indoors, changing your clothes when you come inside from a day out and taking a shower as soon as you get home too.

If you need to take hay fever medication, find out which ones work best for you and whether you need to take your anti-histamine tablet at the same time each day for the best effect.

If your eyes tend to feel itchy, soothe the area with a product like Hydrosil Dry Eye Gel which has been formulated for dry skin around the eyes. It is a light natural gel that contains anti-inflammatory Cardiospermum. It soothes skin that has become dry, itchy, and inflamed from eye rubbing, tears or eye drops. Store it in the fridge to make it even more soothing.

2 | Apply some pressure

If you are looking for an alternative way to keep hay fever at bay, you might want to look to the principles of ancient Chinese acupressure. Acupressure has been used for centuries to treat the symptoms of hay fever and other allergies. A modern way to do this is to use a product called the Hay-Band which works by applying pressure to the acupressure point on either arm, called the LI-11 point.

Acupressure is believed to increase the flow of natural energy through the stimulation of various pressure points, to help unblock energy pathways to the nose and throat for promoting wellbeing.

The LI-11 point can be found at the end of the crease at the elbow. Once located, you simply slide the Hay-Band into position so that the button faces inwards over the pressure point, with the bands passing either side of the elbow. It’s a fast-acting solution that is drug-free and natural, meaning there’s no drowsiness or other side effects. They’re suitable for adults and children over 3 years. They should not be used during pregnancy.

3 | Treat yourself to some sweet stuff 

There is no hay fever solution that works for everyone but if you’re suffering from hay fever symptoms, it’s worth trying different things until you find what works best for you. Lots of people believe that local honey has an anti-histamine effect. The theory is that the pollen that is naturally present can have a desensitizing effect. 

It is worth a try and is a tasty option that supports local small businesses too! 

Also read: Do Air Purifiers stop Hayfever? Let’s find out! 

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