Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
Hay fever is a common allergic reaction. It is a reaction from pollen and affects both adults and children.
There are three sources of pollen and people can be allergic to one or all of the following:
- Grass pollen – released during the end of spring and beginning of summer (May to July)
- Tree pollen – released in the springtime (February to June)
- Weed pollen – released between early spring and late autumn (June to September).
Pollen is an irritant and when it comes into contact with the mouth, nose, eyes and throat, it will trigger an allergic reaction.
Common symptoms include:
- Sneezing and coughing
- Red, watery and itchy eyes
- A runny or blocked nose
- Headaches and blocked sinuses
- Tiredness
Antihistamines are the usual treatment for hay fever and are available in nasal sprays, eye drops and tablet form.
Top tips to advise your customers who have hay fever:
- Check pollen count daily and avoid going out when its high
- Keep your windows closed when there is a high pollen count
- Wear wraparound sunglasses to keep pollen out from the eyes