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Get prepared for spring - top 5 hay fever treatments

Most of us are wrapped up warm and in the midst of a winter chill, but spring is just around the corner and although we’ll look forward to longer days and warmer temperatures, hay fever is not quite such an appealing prospect. Hay fever is one of the most common allergies in the UK and it affects thousands of people during the spring and summer months. If you suffer from hay fever, make sure you are geared up for the spring and check out these treatment options:



spring preparation
Anti-histamine tablets Hay fever is an allergy to pollen; it affects around 1 in 5 people and it usually causes symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes. When you have an allergic reaction, this triggers a response in the body and a chemical called histamine is released; antihistamine tablets help to block the effect of histamine, which prevents you from suffering from symptoms. There are various brands available, as well as supermarket-own brand, which are usually considerably cheaper.


The most common types of hay fever tablets are loratadine and cetirizine; both are taken once a day and modern medicines do not usually cause drowsiness, although some people say they feel a little drowsy after taking antihistamines. You can buy antihistamines over the counter and they are also available on prescription.

Corticosteroid nasal sprays Nasal sprays are a handy treatment, especially if you work outside or you on the go; they help to reduce inflammation in the nose, which stops you from feeling itchy and prevents a runny nose. You may be advised to use a nasal spray if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, your main symptom is a runny nose or you have not responded to antihistamine tablets.

Corticosteroid tablets
If you require quick relief for hay fever, for example if you have an exam or you are preparing to take your driving test, your doctor may recommend a short course of corticosteroid tablets. Corticosteroids should only be taken for a short time as they are known to cause unpleasant side-effects, including weight gain, mood swings and acne.

Nasal decongestants If you suffer from a blocked nose as a result of hay fever, you may be advised to use a decongestant nasal spray to ease your symptoms. Decongestant nasal sprays are available over the counter.

Eye drops Hay fever allergies often causes the eyes to become itchy, swollen and red; eye drops can help to ease itchiness and reduce inflammation. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice if you are unsure how to use eye drops.

In most cases hay fever treatments can be used as a preventative measure, as well as in response to symptoms; often, people who have hay fever start taking treatment in the early spring to prevent symptoms.

Author Biography Cathy is a freelance writer and writes about a whole range of topics including health, beauty, vegan and organic products to name a few.

Comments

  1. Girish3:16 PM

    drink a lot of water it will help your body regulate temperature . damp a cloth of water on your forehead . and soup could help too

    ReplyDelete
  2. Karthikeyan3:18 PM

    CHAMOMMILE Tea is used to reduce duration of hay fever attacks.

    ReplyDelete

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