1 in 5 people in the UK has a pollen allergy, also known as hayfever. Typically seasonal, but it depends on the type of pollen causing the immune response. Hayfever may stick around all summer, or it may just be activated at certain times of the day. Dry and itchy eyes, runny nose and sneezing are the most common symptoms.
Keep windows and doors shut.
In the heat, it is tempting to open the windows and doors to let in a breeze. The breeze carries pollen, ready to land on you and all the other surfaces. Fans and air conditioning units can cool rooms on high pollen count days. The pollen count can be checked with whatever source you get your weather forecast from. If you do have windows open, be prepared to do a lot of cleaning.
A clean home is a pollen-reduced home.
No home is a complete airlock. Wash curtains or have them dry cleaned, but do not hang them up outside. Blinds are easier to clean with a soapy solution or spray cleaner on a damp cloth. You can even use an antibacterial wipe. Wipe surfaces and wipe them often. Use a tumbler dryer for clothing and bedding if possible. Get the vacuum out and put trinkets and books behind glass in a china cabinet, so they don’t have to be cleaned as often. Throws and cushions should be stored in plastic boxes until they’re needed again in the autumn. Toys should also be stored this way. If you can’t pull up the carpets, vacuum regularly and empty the contents while wearing a face covering.
Personal hygiene.
Apart from removing body odour and feeling pleasant after a day out in the sun, a cool shower can remove pollen. Be sure to wash hair too as pollen will linger there. Use a clean towel and flannel for each shower as pollen on your body may survive the soap and water, only to be wiped off onto the towel. Much like people carry pollen on their clothing, pets carry pollen on their fur. Hayfever sufferers can have different indoor and outdoor clothing. Pets need to be groomed after being outside because they can’t change their coat. If possible, use a damp cloth or brush to clean your pet.
Antihistamines.
Allergy relief can be sought online. Keep antihistamines handy and ready for hayfever season. Click Pharmacy has a range of allergy relief available on prescription and over the counter. Antihistamines come in a few different varieties, and each has a typical range of side-effects, including sleepiness, so you may not be able to drive or operate heavy machinery. Eye drops are available that target just the eyes if itchy eyes are the main symptom.
Invest in an air filter.
Pollen is always going to find a way in, but an air filter can reduce the amount of pollen blowing around your home and covering surfaces. Air filters are also available for your car.
No Comments