Survive your hay fever symptoms this spring

Posted: 26th April 2024 | Posted by Costa

Survive your hay fever symptoms this spring

Hay fever season is here. Boo. 

For many of us, spring is a less-than-welcome visitor. While it brings warmth and longer days, it also brings misery to almost half of the population. But don’t worry—there are ways to manage your symptoms effectively and enjoy the season to the fullest. 

We’ve put together some practical steps to help you thrive despite hay fever this spring so you won’t have to hide under the stairs like Harry Potter for the next four months.

Signs of hayfever and pollen allergies

It’s important to differentiate between hay fever and a common cold, especially during the pollen season. Some symptoms to watch out for include sneezing, coughing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy and watery eyes (allergic conjunctivitis), itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears, loss of smell, forehead pain, headaches, and fatigue.

Hay fever symptoms usually worsen during the peak season, which is usually warm, humid, and windy, with high pollen counts. One way to tell it’s hay fever and not a cold is the persistent nature of your symptoms. While a cold may subside after a week or two, hay fever symptoms can linger for several weeks or even months.

The four attack phases of hay fever

Knowing how hay fever affects you can be useful for understanding how to better manage it. 

Initial contact

The journey of hay fever begins when an external allergen, like pollen, infiltrates your nose, targeting the mast cells within your nasal lining. Initially, this encounter might not even stir noticeable symptoms, subtly setting the stage.

Immediate reaction

Upon this intrusion, the allergen prompts mast cells to produce antibodies, igniting an allergic reaction. This reaction involves the release of various compounds, including histamines, which combat the allergen by affecting nerves and blood vessels. This natural defence mechanism manifests as the familiar discomforts of hay fever.

Swelling and irritation

As your body continues to defend itself, white blood cells rush to the site, bringing about the swelling and irritation that culminates in nasal congestion.

Continued response

The situation escalates over 6 to 12 hours as the inflammation stimulates further histamine release. This results in an intensification of symptoms such as an itchy and runny nose, irritation around your eyes, sneezing, and increased congestion, marking the prolonged battle against hay fever.

Surviving your hay fever symptoms

Spring need not be a season to endure with dread. By adopting a proactive approach to managing your hay fever, you can enjoy the beauty of the season with minimal discomfort. Here are some practical tips:

Stay informed

Keep an eye on daily pollen forecasts. Many weather services provide these, and staying ahead can help you plan your day to minimise exposure. Here’s a pollen calendar we made earlier for you.

Create a pollen barrier

Applying a small amount of Vaseline around your nostrils can help trap pollen before it enters your nose. Similarly, wearing wrap-around sunglasses can protect your eyes from airborne allergens.

Limit your exposure to pollen 

The levels of pollen usually reach their highest point early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Try and plan your outdoor activities outside of these periods of high pollen count. Activities such as cutting or walking on grass can stir up pollen, as can keeping fresh flowers indoors. Moreover, exposure to smoke, either by smoking yourself or being around others who smoke, can significantly worsen your symptoms of hay fever. Also, it is important to avoid drying your clothes outside during high pollen seasons, as they can attract pollen and bring these irritants directly into your living space.

Keep your environment pollen-free

Make it a habit to change your clothes and take a shower after coming indoors to remove pollen. Keep windows closed during high pollen counts, and consider using air purifiers in your home.

Be mindful of the pollen your pets carry

It’s common for pets to bring pollen into your house when they come in. Although some advice says leave your pets outside, as pet owners ourselves we know that’s b…hogswash. 

Instead, to reduce the impact of pollen, it’s recommended that you clean your pet when they come inside from playing. Additionally, make sure to put any towels or cloths that come into contact with your pet straight in the wash.

Management options 

It’s easy to struggle through with antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays. But a better quality of life is around the corner. An allergy test can confirm if pollen is the culprit, and consulting with our specialist can help you develop a personalised management plan.

Embracing spring means facing hay fever head-on, but you don’t have to do it alone. Are you ready to thrive beyond your hay fever symptoms? Register as a new patient, and let’s chart a course towards more breathable, symptom-free springs. Whether you’re drawn to an in-depth assessment at our renowned allergy clinic in London or you prefer the simplicity and comfort of our home allergy test, our dedicated team is committed to guiding you through every step. Together, we can tailor a hay fever management plan that fits your lifestyle and lets you enjoy the beauty of spring to the fullest.