It is thought that around 49% of people in the UK suffer from symptoms of hay fever. The pollen count is at its highest when the weather is warm and humid usually between March and September. Our nurse Jayne has shared her guidance on how to help combat the symptoms.
Symptoms of hay fever can include:
- Sneezing and coughing
- A runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, red or watery eyes
- Itchy throat, nose or mouth
- Loss of smell
- Pain around your head
- Headache or earache
- Feeling tired
Hay fever can for some people last for a few weeks or months, and although there is no cure for hay fever, it can be treated.
How to help relieve the symptoms of hay fever:
- Put Vaseline around your nostrils to trap pollen
- Wear wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen from getting into your eyes
- Shower and change your clothes after you have been outside
- Stay indoors whenever possible
- Keep windows and doors shut where possible
Speak to your community pharmacist about your hay fever symptoms and ask if they can advise you about reducing your hay fever symptoms. Remember to say which medications you are prescribed and that you have a diagnosis of cardiomyopathy. Your pharmacist can then advise you about antihistamine drops, tablets or nasal sprays which may help to reduce some of your symptoms such as itchy and watery eyes, sneezing and/or a blocked nose.
Some common medications used to treat the symptoms of hay fever contain an ingredient called pseudoephedrine. This is a decongestant that helps to relieve a blocked nose. This ingredient is also a stimulant and can cause side effects of arrhythmias, palpitations and high blood pressure. For this reason, it may not be recommended for people with cardiomyopathy.
If you are concerned about any of your symptoms or have prolonged symptoms, speak to your GP or practice nurse for advice. You can also call our nurses helpline on 0800 018 1024. Lines are open Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm.