Is Hay Fever an Intolerance?

Hay Fever is not an intolerance, it’s an allergic reaction to pollen or other airborne allergens and is not related to foods or symptoms that are typically linked to an intolerance. Hay fever causes a lot of inconvenience to your life, particularly over the summer months due to the pollen count being higher.

What Type of Pollen causes Hay Fever?

Pollen is an intruder, our bodies have a reaction to it and instantly try to fight it off. There are three types of pollen that cause hay fever. Tree pollen is usually common from early spring to the end of spring, with the severity of your symptoms depending on the weather. Weed pollen can be harder to deal with as it can be released any time of the year, however, this type is more common during early autumn. Finally, grass pollen is one of the worst as this is most common during the peak of summer. Grass pollen will multiply in the heat and be stuck in the air, making it hard for you to avoid any symptoms.

Symptoms of Hay Fever

Symptoms of hay fever consist of a blocked nose, headaches, loss of smell, rashes, itchy eyes, earaches and sneezing. The symptoms can be unpleasant, but they are manageable once you know how.

How to Ease Your Hay Fever Symptoms

If you’re struggling with hay fever, make sure to change your clothes if you’ve been exposed to pollen, your clothes can catch pollen which will make your symptoms last longer. Windows and doors are best shut and dust your home with a damp cloth to make sure you’re not spreading the pollen around your house. Many people have dogs, if you go on a dog walk give them a rinse once you’ve finished so that you’re not exposing your home to pollen. Lastly, take one antihistamine a day to keep your symptoms at bay.

What Not to do When you have Hay Fever

Do not cut grass unless it’s necessary, this will be the start of a disaster because you will start to experience hay fever symptoms almost instantly. Spending too much time outside will worsen your symptoms, especially on a hot day. Say no to flowers, this one is difficult if you love to have fresh flowers in your home but having them around will be infecting you with pollen. It’s important to note that smoking can also worsen your symptoms of hay fever.

Summary

Hay fever is on the rise each year, with 1 in 5 people experiencing symptoms in the UK. It’s not an intolerance, but the allergy can come on at any point in your life, you don’t have to be born with it. Use the tips in this article to manage your symptoms and do everything you can to make your life easier in the summer. We also recommend checking the pollen count each morning so that you can correctly prepare for the day ahead.