Minimize pollen exposure:
- Stay indoors when pollen counts are high: Pollen counts are usually highest in the early morning and evening, so try to stay indoors during these times. You can check the daily pollen forecast online or through weather apps.
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- Keep windows and doors closed: This will help to prevent pollen from entering your home.
- Avoid spending time outdoors on windy days: Wind can stir up pollen and make your symptoms worse.
- Wear a pollen mask: When you are outdoors, wear a pollen mask to help filter out pollen particles.
Reduce pollen inside your home:
- Use a HEPA air purifier: This will help to remove pollen and other allergens from the air in your home.
- Wash bedding and clothes regularly:Pollen can stick to your clothes and bedding, so wash them regularly in hot water (at least 55°C or 131°F) to remove pollen.
- Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors: This will help to remove pollen from your skin and hair.
- Vacuum regularly: Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to remove pollen from carpets and furniture.
Manage your symptoms:
- Over-the-counter medications: There are a number of over-the-counter medications that can help to relieve hayfever symptoms, such as antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids.
- Talk to your doctor: If your hayfever symptoms are severe or do not improve with over-the-counter medications, talk to your doctor or book appointment with Consultdoc. They may be able to prescribe stronger medications or recommend other treatment options.
Additional tips:
- Identify your triggers: Knowing what triggers your hayfever symptoms can help you to avoid them. Common triggers include grass pollen, tree pollen, and weed pollen.
- Avoid drying clothes outside: Pollen can stick to clothes as they dry, so it is best to dry them indoors on a drying rack or clothesline.
- Consider using a nasal saline spray: This can help to clear pollen and other allergens from your nasal passages.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to boost your immune system and may help to reduce hayfever symptoms.
By following these tips, you can help to reduce your risk of hayfever and enjoy the outdoors more.