Seven sneaky hacks to help relieve hay fever symptoms - including Vaseline
Millions of Brits are affected by hay fever, with many of us opting for antihistamines, nasal sprays and tablets to help soothe the symptoms - but there are a lot more ways to relieve the irritation, such as the use of everyday items.
Hay fever patients have been hit by high pollen counts in summer, with concerned experts warning for those worst hit to not confuse the symptoms with COVID-19. It can be extremely frustrating trying to enjoy an event whilst dealing with itchy or watery eyes, continuous sneezing or a blocked and runny nose.
It has been reported that around 25 per cent of Europeans experience some sort of chest, nose and sinus allergy, with the figure expected to increase to 50 per cent within the next 10 years, according to Allergy Ireland.
Unfortunately, patients can still be impacted by some symptoms in autumn due to late-release weed pollen or mould. So with hay fever season trickling over to the start of October, we've listed seven tricks to help control the problem.
High pollen counts can be tracked by downloading an app on your phone (Getty Images/Image Source)Vaseline
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The miracle product can be used for dry lips, and to soothe eyelids or cracked skin, but its multiple uses don't stop there, reports The Independent. Vaseline can also work as a nasal barrier to help trap pollen and other allergens before they reach the nostrils. The protective method can work by smearing a thin layer on your nostrils.
Phone apps
This simple method can work as a lifesaver, especially if you have a few spare days to swap around to ensure you are leaving the house on a minimal pollen day. My Pollen Forecast Pro UK is said to be one of the greatest apps for recording pollen counts. It offers a five-day forecast as well as a live pollen map and a diary feature to report your symptoms. The Asthma Society of Ireland provides a free alternative app that features a pollen tracker with daily updates and predictions for the following day.
Tea bags
You can get the most out of your morning ritual by re-using your tea bag and leaving it in the fridge overnight. The tea bag can work as a cold compress and can help relieve irritation and decrease the swelling around the eye. Alternatively, you can use cucumber slices.
Keep the windows closed
When the UK does get to experience sunny spells, it's tempting to want to let some air in and open the windows. However, this simple action could allow pollen to travel indoors. It is advised for patients to avoid opening windows during peak pollen hours which - also includes night time.
Jump in the shower
The NHS website advises patients to try taking a cool shower and changing clothing items to help wash off the pollen. Experts have urged people to avoid hot showers as it can exacerbate hay fever symptoms further.
Face masks
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Wearing a facemask can work as a protective barrier to pollen and decrease the amount that could be inhaled. Research has suggested that it could also reduce allergic rhinitis symptoms by increasing the humidity of the air breathed in while wearing it, according to Allergy UK.
Wraparound sunglasses
This fashion accessory can help protect your eyes from allergens and pollutant particles. Claire Nevinson, Boots superintendent pharmacist, previously said: "My hay fever strikes early in the season and is worse when the temperature is high, so I will watch the weather forecast and be prepared with medicines that work for me. I also wear wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting into my eyes. I avoid eye make-up too as it doesn’t go well with watery eyes.”
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