As the Met Office issues a “pollen bomb” warning in the UK, allergy doctors offer advice on managing hay fever symptoms without forfeiting summer. The condition affects 25 per cent of UK adults and appears to be worsening due to climate change, which Dr Sophie Farooque, an allergy consultant at St Mary’s hospital in London, describes as “Miracle-Gro for plants”.
Symptoms range from sneezing and itchy eyes to fatigue and facial swelling, explains Dr Helen Evans-Howells, a GP who runs an allergy clinic in Dorset. Hay fever develops with age; 5 per cent of five- to seven-year-olds and 10 per cent of 10- to 12-year-olds are affected, says Prof Adam Fox of Evelina London Children’s hospital. Those allergic to tree pollen face trouble from late January to April, while grass pollen peaks in May and June.
To alleviate symptoms, experts recommend showering after outdoor activities, changing pillowcases daily, and using petroleum jelly around the nostrils to trap pollen. Dr Evans-Howells advises closing windows and drying clothes indoors to prevent pollen entering the home. Antihistamines and nasal sprays are safe and effective, says Prof Fox, helping sufferers maintain normal life during pollen season.
