As spring gets into bloom health experts at NHS Yorkshire and the Humber are urging people to take a pro active approach in the management of hay fever.
Spring is the time of year that can be the most problematic for hay fever sufferers.
Hay fever is caused by the immune system over reacting to pollen, which can be very difficult to avoid totally. However, taking care to restrict your exposure to pollen should ease the severity of the symptoms.
Director for public health at NHS North of England, Paul Johnstone, said:
“Hay fever affects around 20% of people in the UK and can be unpleasant and uncomfortable for those who suffer from it.
“Although it cannot be cured completely there are a number of treatments that are available both over the counter and through your GP which can ease the symptoms.
“There are a number of measures hay fever sufferers can take which help to avoid the symptoms coming on. Try to stay indoors, where reasonably possible, when the pollen count is over 50, don’t keep fresh flowers in the house and change your clothes and have a shower after being outdoors to remove the pollen on your body.”
Tips to avoid hay fever symptoms
- Avoid cutting grass, playing or walking in grassy areas, and camping.
- Wear wrap-around sunglasses to stop pollen getting in your eyes when you are outdoors.
- Change your clothes and take a shower after being outdoors to remove the pollen on your body.
- Try to stay indoors when the pollen count is high (over 50). Keep windows and doors shut in the house. If it gets too warm, draw the curtains to keep out the sun and keep the temperature down.
- Do not keep fresh flowers in the house.
- Vacuum regularly, ideally using a machine with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter.
- Damp dust regularly. Dusting with a wet cloth, rather than a dry one, will collect the dust and stop any pollen from being spread around.
For further information contact:
Carl Jessop
NHS Yorkshire and the Humber, part of NHS North of England
0113 2952111
