As mid-May fast approaches, the grass pollen season is on the horizon. While some hay fever sufferers may feel fine right now, one expert warns that symptoms can begin to worsen as pollen count rises. Pharmacy Director at Superdrug, Craig Watt, told the Express three key actions hay fever sufferers should take this May.
Mr Watt, who also holds a postgraduate diploma in Clinical Pharmacy, shared tips that may be lesser known. Nevertheless, the expert warns that it is a “key time for sufferers to stay on top of symptoms rather than waiting for them to become severe.”
The first key tip Mr Watt shared was that the trick to making the most of antihistamines is timing.
He said: “One tip many people don’t realise is that timing can make a big difference when it comes to managing hay fever. Taking antihistamines before symptoms fully flare up particularly on days with high pollen forecasts can help prevent the body’s histamine response from escalating.”
The Pharmacy Director elaborated on another hay fever hack: “Another lesser known trick is applying a small amount of balm or petroleum jelly around the nostrils. This can help trap pollen particles before they’re inhaled.”
Mr Watt added: “It sounds simple, but many sufferers find it surprisingly effective during peak pollen periods.”
But it’s not just these on-the-go hacks that Mr Watt considers vital.
“It’s also worth thinking about pollen exposure inside the home and car,” he said. “Keeping car windows shut while driving, using air conditioning where possible, and avoiding drying clothes outdoors can all help reduce pollen coming into contact with the skin and airways.”
The expert explained that grass pollen typically peaks between mid-May and July and especially on warm, dry and windy days. His other tips include keeping windows shut on high pollen days, showering after being outdoors, and regularly changing clothes to prevent pollen from spreading indoors.
He also advised wearing sunglasses outside to protect the eyes from any irritation.
The Pharmacy Director explained that antihistamines are still one of the most effective ways to relieve symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes and a runny nose but finding the right one for your symptoms is key.
He recommended Fexofenadine Hydrochloride tablets to avoid drowsiness and eye drops for those experiencing more consistent symptoms. Combining certain products can also provide better relief such as the Fexofenadine Hydrochloride tablets alongside eye drops or a saline nasal spray.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
