A pollen bomb is set to sweep across most of England, so hay fever sufferers need to prepare. Craig Snell, based at the Met Office, said: “Pollen is currently coming from trees.” Hay fever, which is the name for a pollen allergy, affects around two in every 10 people.
Depending on the time of year, the type of pollen in the air will be different.
“There are around 30 different types of pollen that cause hay fever and it is possible to be allergic to more than one type,” the Met Office notes.
In the spring, tree pollen can be rife; in the summer months, grass pollen can take over, while weed pollen can be released from early spring to late autumn.
What is pollen?
The Met Office explained: “Pollen is made up of tiny particles which are released by plants and trees as part of their reproductive cycle.
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“It is an extremely fine powder and is spread by insects and the wind.”
In humid and windy weather, pollen can cause irritation and inflammation in those allergic to it.
Exposure to pollen can trigger the antibody immunoglobulin E, which creates mucus and leads to symptoms such as congestion and sneezing.
Hay fever symptoms can include:
- Runny nose
- Blocked nose
- Itchy eyes, throat, nose, and ears
- Loss of your sense of smell
- Facial pain
- Sweating
- Headaches
- Worsened asthma symptoms.
Then, once you come back in from outside, it’s good to remove outdoor clothing, get in the shower and wash your hair.
James O’Loan, CEO and Prescribing Pharmacist at Chemist4U, said: “[For] UK residents who suffer from hay fever, the spring and summer months may feel unbearable.
“The trick to effectively managing your hay fever symptoms is by being prepared.
“Stock up on allergy treatments, whether it’s tablets or capsules, syrups, sprays or eye drops.”
O’Loan added: “Luckily, there are a lot of hay fever medicines to choose from, so you can find the one that works best for you.
“If you’re pregnant, you might be able to use a nasal spray or eye drops.
“So make sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend a suitable treatment if you’re struggling.”
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