What is the best way of treating hayfever?
As with most allergies, the best way to control hayfever is to avoid the triggers. However, it’s difficult to always avoid pollen, particularly during the summer. A range of over-the-counter products can treat the symptoms of hayfever, including tablets, nasal sprays, eye drops and creams. Antihistamine is the usual treatment for the main symptoms, such as itchy, watery eyes and runny nose, while steroid nasal sprays are the main treatment for a stuffy nose.
Why do women experience hayfever symptoms when pregnant if they don’t usually suffer?
Hayfever during pregnancy can be a particular problem. Hormonal changes make nasal congestion more common during pregnancy, and this often gets worse during the hayfever season. Pregnant women are also advised not to take some hayfever medicines, however should always check with their GP.
When is hayfever at its worst?
Hayfever usually occurs in spring and summer, when there is more pollen in the air. Trees, grass and plants release pollen as part of their reproductive process. Mould and fungi also release tiny reproductive particles, called spores, which also cause hayfever symptoms to occur.
Why do some people experience hayfever symptoms during the winter?
People with hayfever can experience symptoms at different times of the year, depending on which pollens or spores they are allergic to. Allergic rhinitis can be classified as either intermittent or persistent, depending on how often people experience their symptoms.
Can hayfever be cured?
Hayfever cannot be cured completely, but there are a number of treatments available to relieve the symptoms as outlined above. Some can only be prescribed by a GP, but many are available over-the-counter in pharmacies.
The information provided within this article has been sourced via NHS Choices http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/asthma/pages/introduction.aspx and www.nhs.uk/livewell/allergies/pages/allergieshome.aspx
By Kerry Spencer
