It’s a condition that affects around 20% of Brits, and if you suffer from hay fever, this week is likely to have been tricky.
Pollen counts this week have been at the highest levels in 70 years this week, due to a delay in trees’ pollen release.
If you’re struggling to deal with the sneezing and itchy eyes, you’ll be happy to hear that help is at hand.
Marc Donovan, chief pharmacist at Boots, has revealed his top tips to reduce hay fever symptoms.
From applying Vaseline to the inside of your nose to wearing wraparound sunglasses, here’s a round up of Mr Donovan’s top tips to beat those hay fever symptoms over the Easter Weekend.
1. Apply Vaseline to the inside of your nose
It might sound gross, but applying Vaseline to the inside of your nose can help to relieve your symptoms, according to Mr Donovan.
He explained: “Try applying Vaseline to the inside of your nose, it works as a barrier and can trap pollen before breathing it in.”
Alternatively, an allergy barrier nasal spray can also be great for deterring pollen.
Mr Donovan added: “To really feel the benefit, try using it for two weeks before your symptoms usually begin.”
2. Grab a pair of wraparound sunglasses
They may not be to everyone’s taste, but wraparound sunglasses can be a game-changer for hay fever sufferers.
Mr Donovan said: “When you’re in and out of the garden, wear wraparound sunglasses to help prevent pollen from getting in and irritating your eyes.”
Meanwhile, if you’re planning to spend lots of time in the garden this weekend, it’s a good idea to grab a shower straight after you head indoors.
Mr Donovan explained: “After spending time outdoors, try and make time to have a shower to wash away any stray pollen on your hair and skin, and put all clothes straight in the wash.”
3. Avoid hanging your washing outside
With temperatures set to skyrocket this weekend, you may be tempted to hang your washing outside.
However, Mr Donovan warns against this, explaining: “Avoid hanging your washing outside as the pollen in the air can cling to your clean clothes and linger on the materials.”
(Image: Getty Images)
4. Download the Met Office app
The Met Office app is the best source for monitoring daily pollen levels, according to Mr Donovan.
He said: “Keep your eye on the Met Office website daily so you can monitor the pollen forecast, you can now also opt in to receive handy push notifications via the app.”
5. Time your outings well
Pollen levels vary throughout the day, and are typically highest in the early morning and later in the afternoon.
Mr Donovan said: “Around midday is a time where pollen count is at its lowest, so take this opportunity to pop out to the garden for some fresh air and to perhaps eat lunch, this will also help you get a healthy dose of Vitamin D.”
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