Latest news with #HayMax
Scottish Sun
23-07-2025
- Climate
- Scottish Sun
Exact date Scotland will battered by rare ‘pollen bomb' as temperatures set to hit 22 degrees
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SCOTS are facing a 'pollen bomb' affecting half the country over the next 24 hours - as the mercury rises to 22C. Around 2.2million residents are under the threat from the hay fever-inducing grains on Thursday, causing potential misery for many. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 A pollen bomb is set to hit parts of Scotland The Met Office prediction covers major cities and towns including Edinburgh, Dundee, Perth and Stirling. Fife and Dumfries and Galloway also fall within the warning zone. Weather experts indicate grass pollen concentrations will reach elevated levels on Thursday, registering between 50 and 150 grains of grass pollen per cubic metre. Hay fever reactions typically commence at 50 grains per cubic metre. The remainder of Scotland will maintain low grass pollen readings, with both areas dropping back to minimal levels on Friday. Saturday will witness Grampian and Dumfries, Galloway, Lothian and Borders experiencing moderate conditions, while all three eastern coastal areas will register moderate readings on Sunday, July 27. Max Wiseberg, airborne allergens expert and creator of HayMax allergen barrier balm, said: 'The grass pollen season hasn't finished yet in Scotland.' He explained the 'pollen bomb' – an unofficial phrase describing a sudden brief surge of intense pollen release – will spark hay fever reactions in numerous individuals. He added: 'With the latest pollen bomb forecast for the Dumfries, Galloway, Lothian and Borders and Central, Tayside and Fife regions, many people will get symptoms again as 95% of hay fever sufferers are allergic to grass pollen.' We previously reported how Scots are still recovering from last weekend's deluge of torrential downpours and thunderstorms, which caused flooding chaos over the last few days. Parts of the country saw two weeks' worth of rain fall in just one hour as extreme weather gripped the nation. The Met Office issued three back-to-back yellow warnings that lasted from Friday through to Tuesday, and on Monday SEPA issued a total of 16 flood alerts and three flood warnings. Forecasters warned there was a chance of fast-flowing or deep floodwater as thunderstorms posed 'a danger to life'. The torrential rain was so severe in some areas that roads and rail lines were left completely submerged, and in other places some locals were forced to use paddleboards to get around towns. So it's no wonder that many Scots will be hoping to see some more sunshine now that we're at the peak time of summer.
Scottish Sun
14-07-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
5 laundry hacks to help with hay fever as pollen count soars this week – including ditching fabric softener in your wash
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THE POLLEN count is set to soar this week, leaving many with itchy, red eyes and a runny nose. Hayfever affects almost 10 million people in the UK and leaves many unable to enjoy the glorious summer weather. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Hay fever can ruin many people's summers 2 Hanging your laundry outside can lead to pollen falling on to clothes Credit: Getty Pollen levels will each their highest on Thursday this week, so before then, it's a good idea to do all that you can to try and mitigate the problem. 1. Deep clean your washing machine Pollen can get inside your washing machine, redepositing allergens back on to your clean clothes. Therefore, it is important to regularly clean your machine, by running it on a hot cycle. Simply, place a detox tablet into your washing machine, run it on the hottest possible setting, and then make sure to wipe down the door deal and filter. 2. Dry clothes inside Although it may seem like common sense to dry your clothes outside in the hot dry weather, pollen from your garden can end up sticking on your dry clothing. To avoid this, try drying your clothes inside instead. 3. Ditch fabric softener Fabric softeners may make your clothes silky soft, but they also make it easier for pollen to lodge deep inside the structure of your clothes. The heavy fragrance in the products also contains chemicals, which can irritate the skin and lead to respiratory problems. 4. Buy anti-allergy bedding Anti-allergy bedding is a great way to be able to ensure you can still have a great night's sleep if you suffer from allergies. Depending on which type of bedding you buy, it can work in two ways. Woman missed her brother's wedding because of 'life-ruining' hay fever symptoms Firstly, the bedding can work to trap dust and pollen within the duvet, so it can't be dispersed and irritate your allergies. Or, natural materials work to repel dust and pollen, so they can't become trapped in your bedding. Home Bargains is currently selling an anti-allergy duvet for just £7.99. Wash bedding every week Normally, it is recommended to wash your bedding every one to two weeks. Hay fever first aid kit Analyse your symptoms and find the best medication kit for you... Antihistamines Antihistamines (cetirizine or loratadine) work by blocking histamine in the body, which is released when the body detects something it thinks is harmful. Histamine causes blood vessels to expand and the skin to swell, but in people with hay fever, also causes an allergic reaction. That's the watering eyes, blocked nose, rashes and so on. Max Wiseberg, airborne allergens expert and creator of HayMax, says that many antihistamines are available on prescription, such as Telfast, which you can see your GP for or get through an online doctor, such as LloydsPharmacy. Telfast, and other prescription-only antihistamine tablets, work in the same way as over-the-counter antihistamines, but are stronger and intended to help with more severe symptoms. 'Get your prescription in advance of the season so you have your medication in time to start taking it at the right time,' he says. 'Some are best taken at least one month before the hay fever season starts." Nasal sprays A nasal spray can be effective in controlling congestion and stuffiness. Pharmacists can advise on nasal sprays (sodium cromoglicate, ipratropium bromide or decongestant), and eye drops, too. Nasal sprays can also help with other symptoms of hay fever 'because the medicine is targeted directly to the nose, which is where the vast majority of allergens enter the body', Max says. Independent pharmacist Rita Ghelani says: 'Try Xlear nasal spray, which contains xylitol, and has anti-bacterial properties and keeps the nasal lining moist. 'If symptoms are more severe, then try an anti-inflammatory nasal spray – sometimes referred to as a steroid nasal spray – which can take a few days to work. 'Start with one that contains beclomethasone, which is used twice a day, in the morning and at night.' Rita also advises cleaning the nose with a saline nasal spray before a steroid spray, saying: 'It will remove sticky mucus from the nasal passage, thus improving the effectiveness of the medication.' Eye drops If itchy eyes are your primary concern, Rita says: 'Try using sodium cromoglicate eye drops. "These make the eyes less sensitive to allergens such as pollen and reduce irritation. "They need to be used four times a day to keep the levels of the active ingredient high enough to be effective. "Keep using them even if symptoms improve. 'Using a good eye drop to lubricate the eyes may also help with dry eyes during the summer months.' However, if you suffer from allergies, you should make sure to do it every week. Pollen can easily become trapped in your bedding and build up, leading to severe symptoms and lack of sleep. For the best results, wash your bedding at 60 degrees, and wait until its completely dry before putting it back on your bed.
The Irish Sun
14-07-2025
- Health
- The Irish Sun
5 laundry hacks to help with hay fever as pollen count soars this week – including ditching fabric softener in your wash
THE POLLEN count is set to soar this week, leaving many with itchy, red eyes and a runny nose. Hayfever affects almost 10 million people in the UK and leaves many unable to enjoy the 2 Hay fever can ruin many people's summers 2 Hanging your laundry outside can lead to pollen falling on to clothes Credit: Getty 1. Deep clean your washing machine Pollen can get inside your washing machine, redepositing allergens back on to your clean clothes. Therefore, it is important to regularly clean your machine, by running it on a hot cycle. Simply, place a detox tablet into your washing machine, run it on the hottest possible setting, and then make sure to wipe down the door deal and filter. Read more hay fever stories 2. Dry clothes inside Although it may seem like common sense to dry your clothes outside in the hot dry weather, pollen from your garden can end up sticking on your dry clothing. To avoid this, try drying your clothes inside instead. 3. Ditch fabric softener The heavy fragrance in the products also contains chemicals, which can irritate the skin and lead to respiratory problems. Most read in Fabulous 4. Buy anti-allergy bedding Anti-allergy bedding is a great way to be able to ensure you can still have a great night's sleep if you suffer from allergies. Depending on which type of bedding you buy, it can work in two ways. Woman missed her brother's wedding because of 'life-ruining' hay fever symptoms Firstly, the bedding can work to trap dust and pollen within the duvet, so it can't be dispersed and irritate your allergies. Or, natural materials work to repel dust and pollen, so they can't become trapped in your bedding. Home Bargains is currently selling an Wash bedding every week Normally, it is recommended to wash your bedding every one to two weeks. Hay fever first aid kit Analyse your symptoms and find the best medication kit for you... Antihistamines Antihistamines (cetirizine or loratadine) work by blocking histamine in the body, which is released when the body detects something it thinks is harmful. Histamine causes blood vessels to expand and the skin to swell, but in people with hay fever, also causes an allergic reaction. That's the watering eyes, blocked nose, rashes and so on. Max Wiseberg, airborne allergens expert and creator of HayMax, says that many antihistamines are available on prescription, such as Telfast, which you can see your GP for or get through an online doctor, such as LloydsPharmacy. Telfast, and other prescription-only antihistamine tablets, work in the same way as over-the-counter antihistamines, but are stronger and intended to help with more severe symptoms. 'Get your prescription in advance of the season so you have your medication in time to start taking it at the right time,' he says. 'Some are best taken at least one month before the hay fever season starts." Nasal sprays A nasal spray can be effective in controlling congestion and stuffiness. Pharmacists can advise on nasal sprays (sodium cromoglicate, ipratropium bromide or decongestant), and eye drops, too. Nasal sprays can also help with other symptoms of hay fever 'because the medicine is targeted directly to the nose, which is where the vast majority of allergens enter the body', Max says. Independent pharmacist Rita Ghelani says: 'Try Xlear nasal spray, which contains xylitol, and has anti-bacterial properties and keeps the nasal lining moist. 'If symptoms are more severe, then try an anti-inflammatory nasal spray – sometimes referred to as a steroid nasal spray – which can take a few days to work. 'Start with one that contains beclomethasone, which is used twice a day, in the morning and at night.' Rita also advises cleaning the nose with a saline nasal spray before a steroid spray, saying: 'It will remove sticky mucus from the nasal passage, thus improving the effectiveness of the medication.' Eye drops If itchy eyes are your primary concern, Rita says: 'Try using sodium cromoglicate eye drops. "These make the eyes less sensitive to allergens such as pollen and reduce irritation. "They need to be used four times a day to keep the levels of the active ingredient high enough to be effective. "Keep using them even if symptoms improve. 'Using a good eye drop to lubricate the eyes may also help with dry eyes during the summer months.' However, if you suffer from allergies, you should make sure to do it every week. Pollen can easily become trapped in your bedding and build up, leading to severe symptoms and lack of sleep. For the best results, wash your bedding at 60 degrees, and wait until its completely dry before putting it back on your bed.
The Irish Sun
17-06-2025
- Health
- The Irish Sun
Over 13million Brits urged to wipe their windowsills for 30 seconds every day this week
A SIZZLING heatwave is on the horizon for Brits this month, which will please most sun lovers. And many people will love the chance to get Advertisement 2 Brits are being urged to spare a mere 30 seconds to wipe down their windowsills this week after keeping them open Credit: Getty 2 Over 13 million people suffer from hay fever in the UK But Brits are being urged to spare a mere 30 seconds to wipe down their windowsills this week after keeping them open . With an estimated 13 million hay fever sufferers in the UK plagued with itchy eyes, a runny nose, sneezing or fatigue, it's vital to be mindful of indoor allergens. It can also aggravate lung conditions such as asthma, which affects 7.2million people in the UK, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which affects 1.2million. Advertisement Health Tiny articles of pollen can stick to everything including your and clothes and once it gets inside your home it can settle on sofas, carpets, and bedding. Home cleaning specialist and "But not wiping the sills afterwards is basically inviting pollen to settle and linger in your home." Advertisement Most read in Fabulous Pollen can easily settle on smooth surfaces like window sills, frames, and blinds, particularly when windows remain open during peak pollen times. Once in your home, these particles can be stirred back into the air by everyday actions such as opening or closing blinds, or simply walking past. Change your car air filter and have your A/C checked if you suffer from hayfever Regularly wiping these areas before pollen has the opportunity to disperse can prevent it from getting on bedding, sofas, and carpets. Nigel advises: "Just use a damp microfibre cloth once a day. It takes 30 seconds, costs nothing, and can genuinely reduce your hay fever flare-ups indoors." Advertisement Dr Lindsay Browning, psychologist, neuroscientist and sleep expert at , provided other tips on how to keep hay fever at Elsewhere, an allergy expert recently revealed the 8 things all hay fever sufferers need to do. Hay fever first aid kit Analyse your symptoms and find the best medication kit for you... Antihistamines Antihistamines (cetirizine or loratadine) work by blocking histamine in the body, which is released when the body detects something it thinks is harmful. Histamine causes blood vessels to expand and the skin to swell, but in people with hay fever, also causes an allergic reaction. That's the watering eyes, blocked nose, rashes and so on. Max Wiseberg, airborne allergens expert and creator of HayMax, says that many antihistamines are available on prescription, such as Telfast, which you can see your GP for or get through an online doctor, such as LloydsPharmacy. Telfast, and other prescription-only antihistamine tablets, work in the same way as over-the-counter antihistamines, but are stronger and intended to help with more severe symptoms. 'Get your prescription in advance of the season so you have your medication in time to start taking it at the right time,' he says. 'Some are best taken at least one month before the hay fever season starts." Nasal sprays A nasal spray can be effective in controlling congestion and stuffiness. Pharmacists can advise on nasal sprays (sodium cromoglicate, ipratropium bromide or decongestant), and eye drops, too. Nasal sprays can also help with other symptoms of hay fever 'because the medicine is targeted directly to the nose, which is where the vast majority of allergens enter the body', Max says. Independent pharmacist Rita Ghelani says: 'Try Xlear nasal spray, which contains xylitol, and has anti-bacterial properties and keeps the nasal lining moist. 'If symptoms are more severe, then try an anti-inflammatory nasal spray – sometimes referred to as a steroid nasal spray – which can take a few days to work. 'Start with one that contains beclomethasone, which is used twice a day, in the morning and at night.' Rita also advises cleaning the nose with a saline nasal spray before a steroid spray, saying: 'It will remove sticky mucus from the nasal passage, thus improving the effectiveness of the medication.' Eye drops If itchy eyes are your primary concern, Rita says: 'Try using sodium cromoglicate eye drops. "These make the eyes less sensitive to allergens such as pollen and reduce irritation. "They need to be used four times a day to keep the levels of the active ingredient high enough to be effective. "Keep using them even if symptoms improve. 'Using a good eye drop to lubricate the eyes may also help with dry eyes during the summer months.' And Hay fever sufferers have been warned not to buy super-strong injections online as demand has soared for a banned drug. Instead, here are four cheap tricks to beat hay fever season without breaking the bank. Advertisement And finally, the 6p supplement that will help prevent the agonising symptoms of hay fever.
Daily Record
04-05-2025
- Climate
- Daily Record
The 'allergy time bomb' lurking in your wet pup's fur and making your hay fever worse
Scots owner may not have realised that wet dogs are making their hay fever worse this spring Scotland might be losing the spring sunshine for a few days, after the Met Office predicted a dip in temperatures after basking in a mini heatwave. Unfortunately it doesn't mean hay fever or seasonal allergies will disappear. In the UK, one in four people suffer from hay fever every year. The symptoms, including sneezing and irritated eyes, are often worsened for pet owners, as their four-legged friends bring pollen from the outside world into the home. During the nice weather, families have been flocking to the seaside for a relaxing retreat with their four-legged friends. However, as pollen clings more easily to wet fur, it could be making their hay fever much worse. Luckily, pet door suppliers have shared six expert tips to combat hay fever hell this spring. 1. Bicarbonate of soda when washing pet bedding and accessories Owners should wash their pet's bedding and accessories, including all collars, harnesses, leads, and outside clothing, every two to four weeks. This is because the fabric can deposit pollen and dirt throughout the home. To clean them effectively, soak pet bedding and accessories in warm water and washing up liquid for at least 20 minutes. If odours and stains persist, put them in the washing machine with a gentle, pet-friendly detergent. Bicarbonate of soda is a saving grace for dog owners suffering from allergies. If in doubt, add two teaspoons to warm soapy water when soaking. Owners can also create a paste with two teaspoons of bicarbonate of soda and a small amount of water to target stubborn fabrics. 2. Discover every owner's 'miracle' balm Owners can use allergen barrier balms to avoid hay fever disasters. For example, there are balm products aimed at humans that trap allergens when applied around the nostrils and orbital bone. There are a range of such balms available on Amazon at varying prices, but one we have spotted that comes with three different balms is the HayMax Allergen Barrier Balm Triple Tin which costs £16.98. There are also lesser-known products aimed at pets. When applied to a pet's paws and coat, nourishing balms act as a protective layer against pesky pollen. This reduces the risk of allergens being transferred throughout the home. 3. Store pet-friendly cleaning products in the car Hay fever symptoms worsen in enclosed spaces. Driving in a car after a dog walk, for example, is the ideal time for allergens to spread, especially as owners are hesitant to open the window and allow more pollen inside. As such, owners should stock their cars with adequate cleaning supplies, such as a vacuum and pet-friendly wipes. A quick hoover or wipe-down can help reduce the risk of allergy attacks while getting from the park to the sofa.3 4. Invest in allergy-blocking gadgets Every pet owner should invest in high-quality grooming tools, especially if they are eager to reduce the symptoms of hay fever as pet fur can spread pollen and other allergens found outside. Electrostatic grooming tools are a great way to remove allergens from pet fur. Whether people prefer using brushes or vacuums, these handy gadgets can help make homes pollen free this spring. Electromagnetic mats are also useful for reducing the spread of allergens as they collect stray pollen and dander found on pets. It's best practice to place these mats by doors, couches and pet beds. Wear pollen-repelling clothing The clothing owners and pets wear when leaving the house can exacerbate hay fever symptoms. Owners should avoid dog coats made from cotton, for example, as pollen gets easily caught in the fibres. Instead, prioritise clothing made from smooth materials, such as nylon and polyester, as these are easier to wipe clean after time spent outside. It's important to choose breathable fabrics as the warmer months approach. Correctly wash your pet Owners should wash their pets to remove allergens such as pollen and dander. The frequency depends on the animal, with dogs needing to be bathed approximately once a month unless dirty. However, some owners are doing this wrong. It's important to avoid over washing pets as this can lead to them developing dry and sensitive skin. Instead, owners should focus on rinsing paws and using pet-friendly wipes on fur after encountering pollen and other allergens. By following these steps, owners will significantly reduce the risk of worsening their hay fever symptoms this spring. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. 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