Summer allergies: Enjoy the season without sneezing
Posted: 15th July 2024 | Posted by Costa
Summer allergies: Enjoy the season without sneezing
Picture this: You’re planning a picnic with friends at Hyde Park. The sun is shining, the sky is a clear blue, and you’re all set with your favourite sandwiches and lemonade. But just as you settle down, your nose starts to twitch, your eyes begin to water, and before you know it, you’re reaching for tissues more than the sandwiches. This is the reality for many during summer.
Summer is a wonderful time for outdoor activities, but for many, it also brings the challenge of managing seasonal allergies. The beautiful blossoms and warm weather can be a double-edged sword, especially for those who suffer from summer allergies.
Understanding the culprits: What are summer allergies?
Summer allergies are primarily caused by pollen from grasses, weeds, and trees. Around 10 million people in the UK suffer from hay fever, making it a significant seasonal concern. Mould spores and insect stings also contribute to the allergy misery.
Tips to enjoy your summer without sneezing
Over 20 million people in the UK suffer from allergic conditions. Allergies can lead to significant economic costs due to missed workdays and medical expenses.
If you feel you’re suffering from summer allergies, you’re not alone. Here’s what to do next:
- Know your triggers: Understanding what triggers your allergies is the first step to managing them. Pollen is a major summer allergen. Grass pollen is particularly troublesome, peaking in late spring and early summer. Insect stings from bees, wasps, and mosquitoes can also cause allergic reactions. By knowing your triggers, you can take steps to avoid them.
- Check pollen counts: Monitor local pollen counts. Apps and websites like Pollen.com provide daily updates. Stay indoors on high-pollen days, especially in the early morning when pollen levels are at their peak.
- Create an allergy-free zone at home: Use air conditioning to filter out pollen and keep windows closed. Invest in a HEPA filter for your air conditioning system to improve indoor air quality. Regularly clean and replace air filters to ensure they are effective.
- Shower and change clothes after outdoor activities: Pollen can cling to your skin and hair. Taking a shower and changing your clothes after spending time outside can help reduce your symptoms.
- Protect your eyes and hair: Wearing sunglasses can help keep pollen out of your eyes, reducing redness and itchiness. A hat can also prevent pollen from settling in your hair.
- Maintain indoor air quality: Use dehumidifiers to reduce mould growth in your home. Regularly clean areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and basements, to prevent mould buildup. Keeping your living space clean and dust-free can also help minimise allergy symptoms.
A breath of fresh air
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms, it might be a good time to consider allergy testing. Allergy tests can help determine the specific triggers causing your discomfort, allowing for targeted management strategies. Our testing methods are precise and patient-friendly, providing you with the knowledge you need to improve your quality of life.
Don’t let unexplained symptoms control your life. By identifying the underlying issues, you can embark on a path to better health, comfort, and peace of mind. Register as a new patient today to take the first step towards being in control of your health. Or, if you prefer to test in the comfort of your own home, you can order one of our home test kits.