Find A Professional
Dealing with Seasonal Allergies
Understanding Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, affect millions of people in the United Kingdom. These allergies are typically triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, especially during spring and summer. Common symptoms include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes, and a sore throat. Understanding the causes and triggers of your allergies is the first step in managing them effectively.
Identifying Your Allergy Triggers
Identifying the specific pollen types that trigger your allergies can make management much more effective. The UK pollen season generally starts with tree pollen in early spring, followed by grass pollen in late spring and early summer, and finally weed pollen in late summer to autumn. Keeping a diary of your symptoms can help you recognize patterns and pinpoint which types of pollen affect you the most.
Preventive Measures
Once you’ve identified your allergy triggers, you can take steps to minimize exposure. Keep windows and doors closed during high pollen days, which can often be forecasted through local weather reports. Use pollen filters in your car’s air conditioning system, and wear wraparound sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes. Regularly washing your face and hands can also help remove pollen particles.
Medications and Treatments
Several over-the-counter and prescription medications can help relieve allergy symptoms. Antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids are some of the most common treatments. Antihistamines can ease symptoms like sneezing and itching, while decongestants can help relieve a blocked nose. Nasal corticosteroids are effective for reducing inflammation in the nasal passages. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs.
Alternative and Complementary Therapies
Some people find relief through alternative and complementary treatments. Regularly using saline nasal sprays can help flush out allergens from the nasal passages, while natural remedies like butterbur and quercetin have anti-inflammatory properties that may alleviate symptoms. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Living with Seasonal Allergies
While living with seasonal allergies can be challenging, proactive management can greatly reduce discomfort. Stay informed about pollen counts, follow preventive measures, and consult with healthcare professionals for tailored advice and treatment options. By taking a comprehensive approach, you can significantly improve your quality of life during allergy season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are seasonal allergies?
Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, occur during certain times of the year when allergens such as pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds are in the air.
What are the common symptoms of seasonal allergies?
Common symptoms include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, nose, or throat, watery eyes, and coughing.
When do seasonal allergies typically occur in the UK?
In the UK, tree pollen season typically starts in late March to early May, grass pollen season from May to July, and weed pollen season from late June to September.
How can I differentiate between a cold and seasonal allergies?
Colds may have symptoms like fever and body aches, which are not typical for seasonal allergies. Allergies often cause itchy eyes, which are rare in colds.
What medications are available for treating seasonal allergies?
Common medications include antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, and leukotriene inhibitors. Some are available over-the-counter, while others require a prescription.
Are there any natural remedies for seasonal allergies?
Some natural remedies include using a saline nasal spray, drinking plenty of fluids, using a humidifier, and trying local honey.
Can diet affect seasonal allergies?
Some people may find relief from certain foods like fruits rich in vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. However, results can vary by individual.
Is it safe to exercise outdoors during allergy season?
It is generally safe, but try to exercise when pollen counts are lower, such as early morning or after rain. Consider indoor workouts if your symptoms are severe.
How can I reduce indoor allergen exposure?
Keep windows closed during high pollen times, use air purifiers, clean regularly, and wash bedding in hot water. Also consider using hypoallergenic covers for pillows and mattresses.
Can children develop seasonal allergies?
Yes, children can develop seasonal allergies, and their symptoms are similar to adults. Consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment for children.
How can wearing a mask help with seasonal allergies?
Wearing a mask can help filter out pollen and other allergens when you are outdoors, reducing the amount that enters your respiratory system.
Are there any lifestyle changes that can help manage seasonal allergies?
Some helpful changes include keeping windows closed, frequently washing clothing and hair, avoiding outdoor activities during high pollen counts, and using allergy-proof bedding.
How can I check the pollen count in my area?
Pollen counts are often reported in weather forecasts and can also be checked online through various websites and apps dedicated to allergy information.
Can pets exacerbate seasonal allergies?
Yes, pets can bring pollen indoors on their fur. Regularly grooming pets and keeping them out of bedrooms can help reduce exposure.
When should I see a doctor for seasonal allergies?
You should see a doctor if your symptoms are severe, persistent, or not relieved by over-the-counter medications, or if you experience side effects from medications.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Antihistamines how they work with hay fever
- NHS - Antihistamines Overview of antihistamines, their uses, side effects and alternatives on the official NHS website.
- NHS - Hay fever Comprehensive information on hay fever including symptoms, causes, and treatment options like antihistamines.
- Allergy UK - Antihistamines Detailed guide on antihistamines provided by Allergy UK, covering how they work to relieve allergy symptoms including hay fever.
- British Society for Allergy & Clinical Immunology (BSACI) - Hay Fever Information from BSACI on hay fever diagnosis and management, including the role of antihistamines.
Useful links from: Building a Healthy Home Environment
- NHS - How to Have a Healthy Home This NHS page provides advice on how to maintain a healthy home, with tips on cleaning, reducing allergens, and ensuring good ventilation.
- Asthma + Lung UK - Healthy Homes Asthma + Lung UK's guide on making homes healthier, focusing on reducing asthma and allergy triggers in the home environment.
- Mind - Housing and Mental Health Mind charity's page discussing the impact of housing on mental health and providing tips on creating a better living environment for improved mental wellbeing.
- British Lung Foundation - Make Your Home Healthy The British Lung Foundation offers advice on making your home a healthier place to live, specifically in relation to lung health and preventing respiratory issues.
Useful links from: Anxiety in young people
- NHS - Anxiety in Children This NHS page provides information on anxiety disorders in children, symptoms to watch out for, and guidance on when to seek help for your child.
- YoungMinds - Anxiety YoungMinds offers support and advice for parents and carers to help them understand and manage anxiety in young people.
- Mind - Understanding Anxiety and Panic Attacks Mind provides detailed information on different types of anxiety and panic attacks, exploring their causes and symptoms, along with advice on treatment and support options.
- Childline - Anxiety Childline offers a resource for young people experiencing anxiety, with advice on managing anxiety, personal stories, and interactive tools to help cope.
Useful links from: Exercise Routines for Busy Parents
- NHS - Fitness Studio The NHS Fitness Studio provides a range of online exercise videos that can be done at home, perfect for busy parents seeking effective workouts.
- NHS - Exercise for Busy Mums and Dads This page offers tips on how to incorporate more activity into a busy schedule, tailored specifically for busy parents.
- British Heart Foundation - Staying Active at Home The British Heart Foundation provides advice and resources for staying active within the home, suitable for parents with limited time.
- Mind - Physical Activity & Your Mental Health Mind offers information on how physical activity can support mental health, including practical tips that busy parents can use for self-care.
Useful links from: Coping with Stress and Anxiety
- NHS - Stress NHS page providing comprehensive information on understanding, managing, and reducing stress, along with tips for maintaining mental well-being.
- NHS - Anxiety NHS resource dedicated to understanding anxiety, including symptoms, treatment options, and self-help strategies.
- Mind - Stress Mind, a UK-based mental health charity, offers detailed information on stress, its causes, symptoms, and ways to manage it effectively.
- Anxiety UK Anxiety UK provides support and information for those affected by anxiety disorders, offering resources, therapy services, and self-help materials.
Useful links from: Preventative Care: What Your Family Needs
- NHS - Preventive Health This NHS page provides comprehensive information on various preventive health screenings, including what they entail and when you should get them.
- British Heart Foundation - Prevention & Research The British Heart Foundation offers insights on preventing heart disease through healthy living and provides research updates on heart disease prevention.
- Cancer Research UK - Cancer Prevention Cancer Research UK provides detailed information on how to reduce the risk of cancer through lifestyle choices and other preventive measures.
- Mind - How to Improve and Maintain Mental Wellbeing Mind, the mental health charity, offers tips and resources to help you improve and maintain your mental wellbeing as part of preventive care.
Useful links from: Personal Health: Navigating the NHS for Efficient Care
- NHS - How to access NHS services Comprehensive guide on how to access and use various NHS services including GPs, dentists, and hospitals.
- Macmillan Cancer Support - Navigating the NHS Resource for cancer patients on how to navigate the NHS, including accessing treatment and support services.
- Mind - Navigating Mental Health Services Guide on how to seek help for mental health problems through the NHS, including what to expect and your rights.
- Age UK - How to get the most from your GP Advice for older adults on how to effectively use GP services, including preparing for appointments and understanding your healthcare options.
Useful links from: Healthy Family Lifestyle Tips Post-Pandemic
- NHS - Keeping kids fit NHS guidelines on physical activity for children and young people which can help in maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-pandemic.
- British Heart Foundation - Healthy Eating Guidance and tips from the British Heart Foundation on healthy eating habits for the whole family.
- NHS - Mental Wellbeing NHS advice on improving mental wellbeing for families, crucial for managing stress and mental health post-pandemic.
- Change4Life NHS-backed campaign providing ideas and resources to help families stay active and eat well.
Useful links from: Hay fever advice | NHS
- NHS - Hay fever NHS overview on hay fever, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Allergy UK - Hay Fever Allergy UK's comprehensive guide to hay fever, its symptoms, and how to manage it effectively.
- Asthma UK - Hay Fever Asthma UK's advice on dealing with hay fever, especially for people with asthma, including triggers and treatments.
- British Society for Allergy & Clinical Immunology (BSACI) - Patient Information: Hay Fever BSACI's patient information page on hay fever, detailing symptoms, causes, and management strategies.
Useful links from: Self care - hay fever itchy eyes
- NHS - Hay Fever Comprehensive guide by the NHS on hay fever including symptoms, causes, treatments, and self-care advice for managing and alleviating symptoms such as itchy eyes.
- Allergy UK - Hay Fever Allergy UK provides detailed information about hay fever, its symptoms, effective treatments, and practical advice on managing itchy eyes and other associated symptoms.
- British Society for Allergy & Clinical Immunology (BSACI) - Hay Fever (Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis) BSACI outlines the symptoms, causes, and management strategies for hay fever, with specific advice on controlling itchy eyes and other allergy-related discomforts.
- Asthma UK and British Lung Foundation Partnership - Hay Fever and Asthma This resource provides guidance on the relationship between hay fever and asthma, offering tips for managing symptoms including itchy eyes, particularly in those affected by both conditions.
Useful links from: Anxiety | NHS
- NHS - Anxiety overview Detailed information on anxiety, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and tips for managing the condition.
- NHS - How to Deal With Anxiety Practical tips and guidance on how to manage and reduce anxiety in everyday life.
- Mind - Anxiety and Panic Attacks Support and information from the mental health charity Mind on anxiety and panic attacks, including symptoms, treatments, and support options.
- Anxiety UK A UK charity that provides support, advice, and information for those living with anxiety, stress, and anxiety-based depression.
Useful links from: Short Films About Mental Health - Anxiety
- NHS - Mental health videos A collection of mental health videos by the NHS, including stories and guidance on managing conditions like anxiety.
- Mind - Anxiety and Panic Attacks Mind's comprehensive resources on anxiety and panic attacks, including personal stories and coping strategies.
- Rethink Mental Illness - Anxiety Disorders Rethink Mental Illness provides detailed information on anxiety disorders, including causes, symptoms, and treatments.
- YoungMinds - Anxiety YoungMinds offers support and resources specifically for young people dealing with anxiety, including videos and guides.
Useful links from: What type of anxiety do children and teenagers experience?
- NHS - Anxiety in Children This NHS page provides information on anxiety in children, including symptoms, causes, and advice for parents on how to help their child manage anxiety.
- YoungMinds - Anxiety YoungMinds is a UK-based charity focused on children's mental health. This page offers insights into what anxiety is, how it affects young people, and practical advice for managing anxiety.
- NHS - Social Anxiety in Teenagers This NHS resource discusses social anxiety in teenagers, detailing signs to look out for, possible causes, and suggestions for supporting a teenager suffering from social anxiety.
- Mind - Anxiety in Children and Young People Mind, a UK mental health charity, provides comprehensive information about anxiety in children and young people, covering symptoms, treatment options, and coping strategies.
Have you found an error, or do you have a link or some information you would like to share? Please let us know using the form below.
- Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on Captions, click settings .
- To turn off Captions, click settings again.