Pollen allergy (Hayfever)

Hay fever is one of the most common allergic reactions and complaints in the UK. In general it starts between the ages of 8 and 20 years old, with the symptoms becoming less severe as the person gets older, but unfortunately there is no age limit on who can suffer.

- men are generally more susceptible than women
- surprisingly, it is more common in the city than in the countryside

There is evidence that suggests hayfever is increasing in prevalence along with other allergies. It is thought that pollution may be an important contributor.

Hay fever Symptoms can be experienced all year round, and may be confused with a cold. They can also trigger more severe conditions such as asthma, cough, wheezing and shortness of breath. Other allergy symptoms may include;

- frequent bouts of sneezing
- runny, itchy or blocked nose
- watery, itchy red or sore eyes
- itchy sore throat and tongue
- headache and loss of concentration

Trees, grasses and weeds produce pollen causing an increase in symptoms coinciding with the flowering of these plants for those who are sensitive. Trees can cause symptoms during Spring, grasses in the Summer, with weeds and mould spores prevalent during autumn and winter (dust mites can also trigger hayfever type symptoms and if you have a problem all year round these could be the culprits).

Pollen and mould spores are airborne allergens that are blown into contact with the eyes, nose and lungs where they cause symptoms in sensitive people. Plants that cause hayfever are usually those producing vast quantities of pollen and use the wind for pollination. Generally, insect pollinated plants do not contribute to hayfever.

Acting early in the season can mean you suffer fewer symptoms and suffer less misery. The chances are that one or two type of pollen affect you and knowing when they are released can help you plan, prepare and even avoid the misery of hayfever.

- avoid areas of long grass during the summer months
- keep windows closed midmorning, late afternoon and early evening when the pollen counts are highest
- keep car windows closed when driving - check whether your car has a pollen filter or whether it needs replacing
- wear glasses to reduce contact of pollen with the eyes
- check pollen counts broadcast on the TV, radio or listed in newspapers before going out for the day and take avoidance action

GP and advisor to ITV’s This Morning, Dr Chris Steele is a true advocate of self diagnosis. He says: Understanding allergy and it’s causes can have a considerable impact on a person’s quality of life. Anyone suffering with allergy will tell you that living with symptoms from itchy skin to a constantly running nose and flu-like symptoms can be incredibly debilitating. Add to this the long waiting lists and it’s easy to see we have a very real allergy management problem in the UK.

Quick, reliable and convenient home allergy testing gives people the knowledge to take the next steps towards choosing the most appropriate course of action whether it be a doctor’s appointment, an over the counter treatment or lifestyle changes such as house dust mite or cat avoidance which could considerably improve their quality of life.

Your pharmacist can advise on suitable medications which are available without prescription such as antihistamines, decongestants and anti-inflammatory nasal sprays and eye drops. If your symptoms persist then you should seek further help from your doctor.