After what feels like a long winter, many of us are looking forward to warmer and brighter days. But not everyone is so pleased to see the first signs of spring, and that’s because it means hay fever season is on its way. Read on as we examine the symptoms and statistics surrounding this common issue and reveal a treatment that could just save your summer.

A common problem
Hay fever affects an estimated 13 million people in the UK. It can affect people of any age, however it is usually worse during childhood and teenage years. Many people find their symptoms improve naturally as they get older, in fact for a lucky 10-20% of sufferers, symptoms will eventually disappear altogether.

For those who aren’t so lucky, however, typical symptoms can include:

• Coughing and sneezing
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Runny or blocked nose
• Sinus discomfort
• Headaches
• Skin rashes
• Tiredness

Everybody’s different
Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen but it can affect people in different ways and at different times. Some people suffer most between March and May when trees release their pollen, some suffer from May to August when grasses release pollens, and others suffer in late autumn when weed pollens are released.

Limiting the effects
There are several steps you can take to reduce the effects of hay fever:

• When outside, wear wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes
• Apply Vaseline to the bottom of your nostrils to help trap pollen before it enters your nose
• Shower as soon as you come inside and change into clean clothes
• When inside, keep windows closed
• Vacuum regularly to minimise the build up of pollen indoors

However, in practical terms, most of these suggestions are easier said than done. Some people turn to over-the-counter medications such as tablets and nasal sprays, available at local pharmacies, but the efficacy of these can vary from individual to individual.

If you’re looking for a more effective solution, make an enquiry at YourGP about receiving the Kenalog injection.

A more effective solution
Kenalog is a DEPO injection of a steroid called triamcinolone; a long-acting corticosteroid (hormone steroid) which can dramatically reduce hay fever symptoms and bring relief for those who don’t respond to antihistamines or nasal sprays.

Just one injection of Kenalog lasts throughout the entire hay fever season, making it an incredibly convenient choice for hay fever suffers.

The key thing to remember, however, is that timing is everything. Hay fever symptoms must be present before receiving it, otherwise it will not work.

Book your appointment
Book an appointment with either Dr Doogan or Dr Phimister to find out if the Kenalog injection is right for you. Their consultation will include a discussion of your symptoms as well as any and all previously tried treatments. Plus, you will be given plenty of opportunity to ask any questions about hay fever and the Kenalog injection.

Just use the online booking form, email reception@your.gpcall us on 0131 225 5656 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you, so you can look forward to a symptom-free summer.