NHS ENGLAND has reported a 252 per cent rise in the number of visitors to the hay fever information pages on its website in the past fortnight.
Humid weather and high pollen count saw 34,878 visits during the first week of May and it has increased since then.
Hay fever is at its worst when the pollen count is high and symptoms include sneezing, coughing, red, itchy or watery eyes and nose congestion.
Some sufferers also experience headaches, earache or losing their sense of smell.
Currently there is no cure for the effects of hay fever but Bed Kingdom has provided a list of home remedies which can possibly bring sufferers some relief, reduce the pollen within homes and encourage an allergy-free night’s sleep.
1. Apply Vaseline to trap pollen – Rubbing a line of Vaseline around the nostrils and under the eyes each morning and night will ensure an allergy barrier.
2. Wear protection – Hats, hair ties, sunglasses and cooling/sleeping masks can prevent pollen particles gathering on the skin, bedding, in hair or around the eyes.
3. Shower and change clothes after being outside – After being outdoors, especially if it has involved direct contact with grass, showering and changing clothes can eliminate picked-up pollen particles and avoid spreading throughout them throughout the home.
4. Keep windows and doors shut – It is advised to keep windows and doors shut for a few hours after sunrise as this is when pollen is released.
A dehumidifier may be useful if windows must remain open.
5. Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth – Cleaning will help to prevent build-up of allergens on headboards, mattresses, carpets, and hard floors.
Avoid using feather dusters, a damp cloth will be more effective in trapping and removing pollen.
Also, empty vacuums outside to release dust without risk of it re-entering.
6. Choose the right bedding and wash regularly – Pillows made from bird feathers can hold allergens that result in hay fever-like symptoms.
Consider investing in hypoallergenic bedding made of cotton, rayon or synthetic fibre.
Washing sheets at least every other week on a hot cycle and using a machine dryer if accessible will guarantee a fresh feeling, pollen-free sleep.
7. Try natural remedies to reduce symptoms – Research shows that at-home remedies can be greatly beneficial.
Nettle tea contains antihistamines to settle sinus inflammation. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that combats inflammation, swelling, and irritation caused by pollen.
Quercetin, a powerful antioxidant found in onions, kale, broccoli or skin-on fruits such as tomatoes, blueberries and apples, can relieve inflammation, itchiness and boost the immune system.
8. Swap houseplants for hypoallergenic alternatives – Plants such as Chamomile, daisies, chrysanthemums, sunflowers, cypress, jasmine, juniper or wisteria can cause allergy flares.
Consider keeping houseplants such as roses, daffodils, crocuses, lilies or pansies as an alternative.
9. Clean pets – Brush all pets down and wipe their paws and faces before they enter if they have been outside. If grooming is not an easy option, closing off access to bedrooms will contain the spread.
Help is also available on the NHS website, offering advice on different treatments provided by pharmacists. There is also information on when a GP should be consulted.
Visit nhs.uk/conditions/hay-fever/ for more.
Go to bedkingdom.co.uk for more on Bed Kingdom.
Special feature by Poppy Chambers.
