Hayfever sufferers in Rutland brace for 'worst weekend of the year'
There's high levels of grass pollen forecast in our region today
We're being warned it's the worst weekend of the year so far for hayfever sufferers in Rutland.
There's high levels of grass pollen forecast in the East Midlands today - as we enter the peak period of June and July.
Airborne Allergens expert Max Wiseberg has been speaking to Greatest Hits Radio.
“The grass pollen season usually peaks in June and July, so high pollen forecasts this weekend mark the start of the peak season. And as 95% of hay fever sufferers are allergic to grass pollen, this weekend will be the worst so far this year for sufferers.”
“Many hay fever sufferers start to experience symptoms when the count reaches ‘moderate’,” explains Max.
“Counts will be higher near to large sources of grass pollen including hay meadows.”
There are many ways to help reduce or prevent the symptoms of hay fever – Max’s Top 6 Tips are:
1. "Create your own Hay Fever First Aid Kit if your symptoms are particularly bad on a given day, or you find that nothing really works. My recommendation would be an organic allergen barrier balm to trap the pollen, one (and only one) antihistamine to combat the overproduction of histamines, one (and only one) steroid nasal spray, as the nasal area is where the pollen enters and is most affected, plus one or more other drug-free or natural product.”
2. “Use an organic, drug-free allergen barrier balm such as HayMax to stop the allergen getting in your body. Everyone can tolerate a certain amount of pollen without reaction, but once this level is reached, an allergic reaction will start to occur. An allergen barrier balm applied around the rim of the nostrils and bones of the eyes will help reduce the amount of pollen getting in."
3. “Stop pollen from getting in your home. Keep doors and windows closed so that pollen does not get blown into your home. If the allergen isn’t in your home, then it’s a safe place to be.”
4. “Eat and drink for your hay fever. Stay hydrated and eat lots of fruit and vegetables to stay healthy and support your immune system. Some foods such as capers, red onions, watercress and kale contain quercetin, a natural antihistamine. Avoid alcohol as it contains histamines. Herbal teas can help, for example ginger and green tea work as natural anti-histamines whilst peppermint reduces congestion.”
5. “Make sure you get a good night’s sleep. Hay fever can affect your sleep, so adopt a regular routine. Shower at night before sleeping to remove pollen particles from your hair and body. Then apply an organic allergen barrier balm to block the pollen. Change and wash your bedding regularly to remove allergens.”
6. “Try an antihistamine. Tablets and capsules can relieve most symptoms – sneezing, itchy, runny eyes, skin irritation, itchy nose and throat – but are less effective for nasal congestion. Antihistamine nasal sprays can quickly ease itching, sneezing and watering but are generally only proof against mild symptoms.”