Climate change, pollen booms and worsening hay fever

Looking forward to dining al fresco this summer? If you’re one of the estimated 13 million people in the UK who suffer from hay fever, the answer is probably not! Although we often associate hay fever with a runny nose and itchy eyes, the reality for many sufferers is much worse. It can cause real sinus discomfort, it can seriously disrupt sleep, and it can leave the sufferer feeling fatigued, therefore impacting all aspects of their life. It can also worsen respiratory problems in people with asthma. And according to recent research, it’s a problem that is set to get worse. Read on as the experts at YourGP explain what you can do to limit the impact of hay fever this year.

The signs and symptoms of hay fever

Hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to pollen. The signs and symptoms can vary from person to person, but some of the most common complaints associated with the condition include:

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

It’s that time of year again…

Hay fever can affect people at different times of the year. Some people suffer most between March and May when trees release pollen, some suffer from May to August when grass releases pollen, and others suffer in late autumn when weeds release pollen.

This year, however, things are a little different. The relatively mild temperatures we experienced in February triggered a ‘pollen boom’, kicking off hay fever season much earlier than previous years, and this year’s hay fever season is predicted to continue until October.

It’s a trend that’s likely to continue, thanks to climate change. Findings cited by the UK Health Security Agency have shown that rising temperatures will see high pollen counts starting earlier in the year. And it’s a problem that’s expected to affect more and more people. According to recent research from Allergy UK, around 49% of people reported suffering with hay fever symptoms. And a study led by the University of Manchester also indicates that it particularly affects those living in urban areas.

Practical solutions to help keep hay fever at bay

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

Need extra help? Ask your GP

There is a range of over-the-counter medications available at your local pharmacy which can help to minimise the effects of hay fever. This includes tablets and nasal sprays, but the efficacy of these can vary from individual to individual.

YourGP, however, may be able to provide something more effective. Options include a steroid nasal spray or immunotherapy treatment given by injection.

To find out what treatment is most suitable for you, book an appointment at YourGP. Just email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 225 5656 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you, so you can enjoy the summer, no matter how high the pollen count reaches.