Latest news with #pollen
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Why your hay fever symptoms are worse at night - and how to sleep better
A high pollen count is causing sleepless nights for hay fever sufferers. The surge in pollen levels is particularly affecting those in the south west of England, with experts warning that symptoms often worsen at night, disrupting sleep and overall well-being. Dr Seeta Shah, a medical expert at Panda London, said: "Throughout the evening the pollen count peaks, increasing the chances of allergens finding their way into your bedroom. "This can lead to a build-up of indoor allergens which can heighten hay fever symptoms as you settle down at bedtime. "As well as being uncomfortable and making falling asleep harder, hay fever symptoms can disrupt sleeping patterns by causing awakenings during the night. "This reduces the amount of deep restorative sleep hay fever sufferers can get and can leave them feeling lethargic and tired, even after a full night's rest." To reduce the impact of allergens indoors, Dr Shah recommends keeping windows closed during high pollen periods and switching to hypoallergenic bedding. She suggests that bamboo sheets may be particularly helpful, as the fabric is naturally hypoallergenic, breathable and resistant to dust mites and other microorganisms. READ: Hay fever? Here's 5 drinks you have at home that could help 'wash out' symptoms Dr Shah said: "Switching to bamboo bedding is particularly beneficial for those with allergies as the fabric is naturally hypoallergenic, breathable and resistant to microorganisms and parasites like dust mites and bed bugs. "This not only reduces irritation but also promotes a healthier sleep environment." She also advises regular washing of bed linen and taking a shower before bed to remove pollen from skin and hair. Dr Shah said: "If your symptoms are getting worse at bedtime you should ensure you are washing your bedding regularly. "As well as regularly washing your bed linen, it's also a good idea to take a shower before you get into bed during hay fever season." For those struggling with nasal congestion, extra pillows may help, but care should be taken to avoid neck strain. Bethany Lawrence, an orthopaedic expert at Panda London, said: "Whilst elevating your head is a popular way to relieve nasal congestion caused by hay fever, if you're using this technique you need to ensure you are not straining your neck."
The Sun
4 days ago
- General
- The Sun
The 6p supplement that helps prevent agonising hay hever symptoms – and 5 others to ease your misery
IF you're one of the 16 million Brits plagued by hay fever every... single... summer, chances are you'll do almost anything to banish the misery. And while you've no doubt stocked up on antihistamines and nasal sprays, prayed for 90s wrap-around sunnies to come back into fashion and slathered local honey on your toast, it seems we might all be missing a simple - and super cheap - trick. 4 It turns out a cocktail of supplements might be the missing weapon in your hay fever armoury. While the first cries of sufferers begins as the trees shed their pollen, as early as March, it's now when the majority of hay fever victims emerge, streaming eyed and snotty nosed. And the culprit? Grass pollen. The season typically starts in May and lasts until August - and it's grass that's to blame for 95 per cent of pollen allergies. According to the Met Office's handy pollen forecast, levels are creeping up from today and are expected to be high across the south of England across the weekend. So, if you're one of the unlucky ones, our experts firstly suggest popping a daily vitamin D supplement. Vitamin D, known for its immune-boosting properties, could play a crucial role in supporting the body's ability to handle the increased pollen exposure and reducing the severity of hay fever symptoms, they say. Benjamin Bunting, a sports nutritionist, physical training instructor in the British Army and founder of beForm Nutrition, tells Sun Health: "The UK has just come out of a winter with very little sunlight, and your vitamin D levels could be low if you've not been taking any supplements. "Vitamin D is essential for a healthy immune system, calcium absorption and bone strength. You are at risk of deficiency if you do not get enough sun or take enough vitamin D. "It's like a double-punch with the end of cold and flu season, which can have a lingering effect on immune systems and cause us to overproduce antibodies when we encounter pollen. "I'd recommend taking vitamin D supplements a few weeks before the season to help build your immunity to hay fever, reduce the severity of its symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve how the body manages allergic responses. hayfever recommendations from a boots pharmacist "Check your vitamin D levels with a doctor to determine the right dosage for you, as it is possible to take too many vitamin D supplements." Dr Ross Perry, medical director of Cosmedics, backs up Benjamin's claims. He tells Sun Health: "Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system, particularly by supporting the function of T-cells and reducing inflammation. "When vitamin D levels are low, the immune system may become more reactive to allergens such as pollen, leading to heightened hay fever symptoms. "Additionally, vitamin D may help modulate the body's inflammatory response." Dr Eamon Laird, assistant lecturer of nutrition at the Department of Nutrition, Atlantic Technological University, Sligo, Ireland, adds: "Research papers have shown positive benefits of vitamin D for allergic rhinitis (for example hay fever - sneezing, itching, congestion, and a runny nose). 4 "Studies have also shown a reduced number of symptoms particularly when used in combination with treatments other than corticosteroids." A study looking at the effect of vitamin D supplementation on allergic rhinitis found that it significantly reduced symptoms and improved overall quality of life for patients. Another study, comparing vitamin D with a placebo, showed that vitamin D supplementation without corticosteroids alleviated hay fever symptoms. Dr Perry adds that ideally you should start taking vitamin D supplements in the late winter or early spring, which is a good amount of time before hay fever season begins. He explains: "This gives your body time to build up adequate levels ahead of peak pollen exposure. "Because many people in the UK and Northern Europe are vitamin D deficient by the end of winter due to reduced sunlight, which is the main natural source of vitamin D. "Since it plays a role in regulating immune response and inflammation, low levels may make hay fever symptoms more intense. "By starting with the supplement around February or March , you're giving your immune system better support before spring and summer allergens appear. "It's always a good idea to check in with your GP prior to taking any form of supplement, especially if you experience recurring seasonal allergies or low energy in winter months." Can vitamin D from sunlight help? 4 One of the best ways to get vitamin D is through sunlight exposure. But during pollen season this may also increase the chances of you having hay fever symptoms. GP and Olbas spokesperson Dr Roger Henderson says: "Some people whose hay fever symptoms definitely improve when their vitamin D levels go up may find that being outside in the sun regularly can help, but for most people the benefits of being out in the sun (and avoiding sunburn or too much sun exposure) come from maintaining their overall vitamin D levels." How much vitamin D should you take? Taking too many vitamin D supplements over a long period of time can cause too much calcium to build up in the body - a condition known as hypercalcaemia. This can weaken the bones and damage the kidneys and the heart. If you choose to take vitamin D supplements, 10 micrograms a day will be enough for most people, advises the NHS. You can buy vitamin D supplements or vitamin drops containing vitamin D (for under 5s) at most pharmacies and supermarkets - and they don't cost the earth. For example, Vitabiotics Ultra Vitamin D 1000IU, which contains 96 tablets, is priced at £6.15 - meaning it's 6p a pill. Can any other supplements help? Vitamin C, omega-3 (fish oil), and probiotics may also offer a helping hand when lessening hay fever symptoms, according to studies. Dr Perry explains: " Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine that can reduce sneezing and watery eyes and can help lower histamine levels and support the immune function. " Omega-3 (Fish Oil) is an anti-inflammatory and may reduce the body's allergic response, and can help calm an overactive immune system. "And finally probiotics help to support gut health, which is closely linked to immune balance." Dr Laird said other macronutrients to consider are zinc and selenium. Zinc plays a crucial role in supporting a healthy immune system and can help manage allergic responses. Selenium, an essential trace mineral, bolsters the immune system and may offer some benefits for allergies. How else can you dodge pollen while you're out in the sun? Dr Henderson has some additional tips for those looking to be hay fever symptom-free this summer. He recommends: "Wearing wraparound sunglasses when outside can help to minimise how much your eyes are exposed to pollen, which in turn can reduce eye symptoms. "Simple products that can help soothe symptoms of hay fever include an aloe-vera based nasal decongestant, nasal saline washes and non-sedating antihistamine tablets, sprays or drops." 1. Monitor pollen forecasts Stay informed about pollen counts by checking local weather forecasts or allergy apps. Reduce outdoor activity when the pollen count is high. 2. Stay indoors When the pollen count is high, minimise time spent outdoors. Keep windows and doors closed to prevent pollen from entering. 3. Protective gear Wear wrap-around sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes. Consider wearing a mask, especially when mowing the lawn or doing other outdoor activities that may release pollen. A wide-brimmed hat can help protect your face and neck. 4. Clean up Shower and change clothes after being outside to wash off pollen. Consider washing hair to remove pollen particles. 5. Indoor environment Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter to remove pollen and dust particles. Keep your home clean and dust-free. Avoid keeping fresh flowers in the house, as they can release pollen. Consider using an air purifier. 6. Car Keep car windows closed when driving. Install pollen filters in your car.
The Guardian
4 days ago
- Health
- The Guardian
How to stop hay fever: 13 remedies that actually work (and the ones that don't)
I grew up playing in the woods, sleeping with my dog and dead-heading flowers for my dad. This rampant early exposure should have turned me into a hay fever immunity machine, but here I am, all itchy eyes and streaming nose as summer hoves into view. Not that I can see it very well. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. 'You cannot cure hay fever,' is the rather dispiriting verdict of the NHS website, which recommends staying inside with your doors and windows shut. I sought a second opinion from Dr Unnati Desai, national lead for GP Services at Nuffield Health. 'Trying to avoid any type of pollen from about February to September in the UK is near impossible,' she says. 'Instead, find the right way to control your symptoms.' Or stop the pollen getting up my schnozz in the first place, says Dr Megha Pancholi, clinical lead at Boots Online Doctor. 'Simple things can reduce your exposure, like wearing wraparound sunglasses and applying petroleum jelly around your nose.' Well, that's a look. The more experts I spoke to, the more hay fever cures were touted. To find out which ones actually worked, I set about squirting them up my nose, swallowing them, wearing them and, in a few welcome cases, sleeping with them. Here, I reveal the remedies that won by a dribble-free nose. I've spent three decades testing consumer products, from heated clothes airers to computer software, so I'm professionally sceptical of manufacturers' claims to magically improve our lives by buying their stuff. As a long-term freelancer, I also have a solid background in running away from work to hang out with trees, which feed my soul and torture my sinuses with pollen. People's hay fever triggers and symptoms vary widely, so my own experience wasn't enough for this test. I shared products with my similarly sneeze-ravaged husband, Alan, and also consulted doctors, pharmacists and allergy experts to find out what remedies we should be using and why they might work. Testing hay fever cures is by necessity a long-winded process, and not just because I kept stopping to blow my nose, or whichever part of my face the snot was coming from. Many remedies can be safely 'layered', or combined with each other, but I wanted to find out how well each one worked on its own. So I used them separately for a few days each, beginning in March, when 2025's balmy spring began. I wasn't exactly comparing like with like. Unlike, say, the best mattresses, which all have similar benefits in similar ways, hay fever cures take a wild array of different approaches. Some soothe symptoms while others block allergens; some are drug-based and others adamantly not; some provide immediate relief while others take weeks to make a lasting difference. Then there was a rollercoaster of other variables that changed by the day, such as pollen count, time spent outdoors and degree of cat cuddling. This meant I couldn't get too hung up on details such as the precise number of minutes each product took to stop me sneezing, or the exact daily weight of soggy tissues. But I wanted meaningful test results, so I got Alan to try all the remedies as well, if only to stop him and his nose from costing us an extra loo roll a day. We then compared notes on each product's efficacy, convenience and value for money. I don't sleep in the woods, but my hay fever symptoms are worse at night. I regularly wake up at 3am with a scratchy throat, and Alan and I both greet the morning alarm with sneezing fits. What's going on? Indoor air is relatively static, so dust and pollen build up unless you clear them. 'Humidifiers can help by moistening the air, meaning dust and pollen find it harder to float around,' says Hannah Shore, head of sleep science at Mattress Online. 'Air purifiers can take a lot of the floating particles out of the air. Look for one with a 'quiet' setting so you can use it overnight.' I tried a couple of air purifier models: a large wifi-connected MeacoClean, whose Hepa (high efficiency particulate air) filter powerfully rid our bedroom of allergens within a few hours, and a compact Vitesy Eteria. The MeacoClean's night mode was unobtrusive while I fell asleep, and neither of us woke up sneezing. The desktop Vitesy helped keep my nose relatively clear while I worked. Relief: our symptoms cleared within hours, albeit indoors only. MeacoClean CA-Hepa wifi air purifier £199.99 at Meaco£199.99 at Amazon Vitesy Eteria compact air purifier £129 at Amazon 'A thin layer of petroleum jelly inside the nostrils helps trap pollen before it enters the nose,' says GP and author Dr Roger Henderson. Turns out the Vaseline trick actually works, genuinely calming my nose down. Alan found it effective but 'disgusting', noting that it smells of a petrol forecourt, which may be to some people's taste but not ours. It's also slimy and makes your nostrils glisten snottily in the light, which I'm guessing isn't high on our fashion editor's looks of the season. I found a more palatable alternative in organic barrier balms. The beeswax and seed oil formulation of HayMax gives it a firmer texture than Vaseline, and its frankincense, aloe and lavender varieties all smell delicious. Alan was an instant fan when it stopped his nose from running. I found it more effective for symptom prevention rather than cure – and the lavender version helped me sleep. Relief: won't stop a full-on sneezing fit, but helped me breathe and soothed symptoms for a couple of hours. HayMax balm £8.49 for 5ml at Boots£8.49 for 5ml at Holland and Barrett Vaseline original petroleum jelly £1.80 for 50ml at Boots£1.80 for 50ml at Superdrug 'I regularly deal with patients suffering from summer allergies, primarily allergic rhinitis,' says ENT (ear, nose and throat) surgeon Dr Anil Joshi. 'Saline (salt water) sprays moisturise the nasal mucosa, aid in the clearance of allergens and reduce inflammation. This can provide significant relief for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and nasal allergies, especially when coupled with other therapies.' My own GP recommended saline spray years ago, and although I hated it at first (feeling much as I imagine it would to be water-boarded in the sea), it soon became a powerful ally in my war on a runny nose and sore throat. I like using straight-up saline, but Alan hated the 'salty aftertaste' and preferred xylitol-sweetened Xlear. Relief: within half an hour, although you'll need to blow your nose a lot. Xlear nasal spray £10.23 for 45ml at iHerb£9.99 for 45ml at Amazon Boots saline nasal spray £6.99 for 100ml at Boots 'Beconase and Flixonase contain small amounts of steroid such as beclometasone,' says Dr Naveed Asif, GP at the London General Practice. 'These help to reduce the body's allergic response to triggers such as pollen.' Steroid sprays aren't drug-free like saline spray, but they're safe for medium-term use (up to about three months, says the NHS) and they're brilliant value. Their main downside is that it takes a couple of weeks to feel the effects. I continued with the other remedies while Alan started on the Beconase. 'It took ages to work,' he said after two sprays a day for three weeks. 'But it's definitely helped, because I've stopped going through an entire kitchen roll to blow my nose.' For that, I am very grateful. Relief: takes two weeks to have an effect, then provides long-term relief from a range of symptoms. Beconase hay fever spray £10.99 for 180 sprays at Superdrug£11 for 180 sprays at Boots Antihistamines were recommended by most of the experts I spoke to, including those who were advocates of more natural approaches. 'Your symptoms are driven by excess histamine production,' says medical herbalist Siobhán Carroll. 'Antihistamines quell inappropriate histamine production and reduce the snowball effect of increased inflammation in the body.' The key is finding the antihistamine that works for you. 'They all work in a similar way, but people may respond differently to each one,' says Pancholi of Boots Online Doctor. 'Some antihistamines may be more effective for certain individuals than others, providing longer relief or causing less drowsiness.' I took cetirizine (Piriteze) and loratadine (Clarityn) for a week each, and they both reduced my symptoms, but not quickly or consistently. Cetirizine also triggered an attack of zits on my chin. Not just once, but within a few days of every single attempt to take it. I found my ideal match in the newer 'second-generation' non-drowsy antihistamine fexofenadine (Allevia), which has proved especially good at soothing my itchy eyes. I find my symptoms return by evening, though, rather than the advertised 24 hours. Relief: within 30 minutes and lasting several hours, but not the whole day. Allevia tablets £11.49 for 30 x 120mg tablets at Superdrug£12.49 for 30 x 120mg tablets at Boots Vacuuming is a hay fever sufferer's nightmare in the short term because it disturbs dormant dust, but it's also essential for ridding your space of allergens. 'Vacuums with Hepa filters are certified to trap more than 99.97% of airborne particles, including pollen, dust mites and pet dander,' says Dr Daisy Mae, allergy expert for Bed Factory Direct. 'In your bedroom, this can hugely impact sleep.' And don't forget to vacuum your mattress, she adds. I gave Alan the job of blitzing the bedroom with an Ultenic Hepa vacuum, whose alarming headlight revealed revolting levels of dust under the bed. Sneezing his way through the task, an hour later the room felt more comfortable and we slept soundly, with no runny noses to greet us in the morning. Relief: aggravates symptoms at first, but relief is powerful and lasting if you keep up the vacuuming. Ultenic U16 flex cordless vacuum with Hepa filter £135.97 at Amazon I love using eye drops that have been stored in the fridge, and pharmacist Rita Ghelani approves. 'Using eye drops daily keeps your eyes hydrated and feeling less sore,' she says. 'You can use special allergy eye drops, or those that lubricate and soothe the eyes.' My favourite budget choice is Boots hay fever relief eye drops, whose 2% sodium cromoglicate content relieves that niggling summer itch in my lower eyelids. If you wear contact lenses, then your best bet is Pollinosan hay fever eye drops from A Vogel, whose natural hyaluronic acid content soothed my eyes for several days during the great dandelion seed blizzard of April 2025. Relief: immediate but not long-lasting. Boots hay fever relief 2% w/v eye drops £4.85 for 10ml at Boots Optrex hay fever relief 2% w/v eye drops £6.25 for 10ml at Superdrug£6.49 for 10ml at Boots A Vogel Pollinosan hay fever eye drops £10.49 for 10ml at Holland & Barrett£13.99 for 10ml at Victoria Health Pharmacist Kiran Jones of Oxford Online Pharmacy recommends wearing sunglasses as part of a layered strategy. 'Start a nasal steroid two weeks before the hay fever season, use a barrier balm around the nostrils, wear wraparound sunglasses and check the Met Office three-hour pollen forecast.' My cheap, decidedly un-stylish pair of wraparounds proved surprisingly effective at blocking pollen and other airborne intruders (including midges) – and also stopped me from rubbing my eyes. When I upped the pollen-blocking ante by adding a wide-brimmed hat, the relief was even more noticeable – at least for my eyes. Sadly, my respiratory symptoms marched on. I tested this outfit in a particularly floral bit of park and nearly blew the glasses clean off with my pollen-triggered coughing fit. Relief: stopped my eyes feeling puffy and itchy within a few minutes when outdoors, but did nothing to relieve coughing and sneezing. Bollé wraparound sunglasses Sign up to The Filter Get the best shopping advice from the Filter team straight to your inbox. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. after newsletter promotion £10.32 at Staples£22.95 at Allergy Best Buys Uilyniu wraparound sunglasses £11.49 for two pairs at Amazon Forclaz women's anti-UV trekking cap £12.99 at Decathlon 'Anti-allergy bedding is treated to resist irritants,' says Shore of Mattress Online. 'Look for products approved by Allergy UK.' Alan and I tried a few samples of bedding from Silentnight and Bed Factory Direct for a week in early May, when the pollen count was particularly high. We slept well, and I especially enjoyed the cooling, cushioned feel of the mattress protector. The pillow protector was scratchy against my face, though, so I added an old pillowcase – which possibly defeated the whole point. Relief: helped us sleep without sneezing, but more of a long-term strategy than instant relief. Silentnight anti-allergy pillow protector £12 a pair at Argos£12 a pair at Amazon Silentnight anti-allergy duvet From £19 for a double at Silentnight£24 for a double at Argos Silentnight anti-allergy mattress protector £17 for a double at Boots£14.30 for a double at Amazon If high pollen days leave you so ravaged by symptoms that you fear going outside, then a mask with a built-in Hepa filter may be your only option. For those of us who just want to breathe and see more easily in summer, however, these fabric gas masks are a bit too much. When I wore a Respro Allergy Mask for walks in my local parks and nature reserves, I looked like I was heading for the trenches. My sneezing did stop after a few minutes, but I also felt hot and daft, and my eyes stayed itchy. The main relief it gave was the pleasure of taking it off once I was back indoors. Relief: didn't relieve my itchy eyes, but powerfully prevents respiratory symptoms while wearing. Respro allergy mask N95 £39.95 at Allergy Best Buys Cleaning the pollen off your face before bed was a strategy mentioned by a few of the experts I spoke to. 'Make sure you get rid of any pollen particles on your skin, particularly your hands, face and any long hair,' says sleep expert Shore. Even a quick wipe with cleanser helps, says Cultskin founder Dr Tijion Esho: 'Cleansing around the eye area can help ease itching and prevent allergens from being transferred into your eyes.' And don't forget to moisturise. 'Moisturiser provides a strong skin barrier,' says dermatologist Dr Benjamin Chun-Man Lee. And that doesn't apply only to adults: 'Studies have shown the value of moisturising in infancy to halt the progression of hay fever and allergic rhinitis.' An extra cleansing session at night didn't make much difference for me, because I always have a bath and wash my face before bed anyway. But every little counts, and it's worth starting now if you're not in the habit of cleaning muck – including allergens – off your face before bed. Relief: extra cleansing at night helps fend off symptoms by morning. Byoma Milky moisture cleanser £13.99 for 175ml at Cult Beauty£14 for 175ml at Space NK No7 cleansing balm £10.75 for 125ml at Boots 'When your body is dehydrated, it can produce more histamine,' says sports nutritionist Jess Hillard. Cutting down on booze can help, says pharmacist Ghelani. 'Some alcoholic drinks contain histamine, the chemical that sets off an allergic reaction in the body. Alcohol also dehydrates you, and that can make your symptoms worse.' Electrolyte powder in water can help your body retain water even when you're sweating a lot, so I tried that. I wouldn't say the cocktail washed away my symptoms, but a few days of careful dosing made me feel more alert when the weather was hot and the pollen was high. Relief: not immediate in my experience, but good hydration is a long-term anti-allergy strategy. Warrior Creatine plus electrolytes £17.99 for 80 servings at Warrior 'A natural decongestant can make it easier to breathe,' says Henderson. 'Aloe-vera-infused decongestants also help soothe irritation.' The strong snot-banishing fumes of Vicks VapoRub and Olbas Oil proved a hit with my husband, but I opted for Olbas patches. I evicted Alan to the spare room, slapped a patch on the empty pillow and slept like a dream – although my hay feverish eyes turned a bit pink from the mild vapour. Relief: quick and moderately effective relief for blocked noses, but may irritate eyes. Olbas Breathe Easy patches £6.49 for six at the Independent Pharmacy£5.95 for six at Amazon Vicks VapoRub £6.75 for 100g at Boots£6 for 100g at Amazon Unprocessed local honey is the hay fever cure du jour for Instagram influencers. Duly influenced, Alan and I spent weeks feasting on the handiwork of Hampshire bees in early spring. But my eyes still itched and Alan's nose still required lockdown-stockpile levels of loo roll, so I can't say it worked. 'Some people believe that eating local honey helps build up your body's resistance against local pollen,' says Crystal Wyllie, GP at Asda Online Doctor. 'But there isn't enough scientific evidence to support this. If eating local honey is your only hay fever remedy, you could be wasting money and leaving yourself at risk on high pollen days.' A cheap, easily available pill that stops you sneezing and sends you to sleep? Sign me up! Actually, don't, because first-generation antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine (Piriton) left me more tired than before. They made me drowsy, but this didn't translate into satisfying sleep – and I woke up during the night with a hay fever-triggered sore throat. It's not just me. 'One study found that sedating antihistamines cause non-REM sleep, which doesn't involve dreaming but a lot of snoring,' says Chun-Man Lee. 'Participants in the study woke up feeling unrefreshed because of the lack of true rest.' Sedating antihistamines do work for many users, as sleep aids as well as hay fever treatments. But they didn't do the trick for me. I was once a xylometazoline addict. The active ingredient in Sudafed Blocked Nose Spray and others, xylometazoline, opens a blocked nose by shrinking your blood vessels, and the relief feels magical if you're bunged up by hay fever or a cold. But it soon creates a physical dependency – so it actually made my symptoms worse. 'Many brands of nasal decongestant sprays contain xylometazoline (or oxymetazoline), which works by causing the blood vessels in the lining of the nose and sinuses to contract and narrow,' says Ghelani. 'Initially, the ingredient appears to help reduce swelling and the general feeling of congestion. However, products containing it should not be used continuously for more than seven days, as they can cause rebound congestion.' I ignored this advice in my early days of using a blocked nose spray to soothe hay fever symptoms. After weeks of daily use, I eventually struggled to breathe without it, especially at night. I weaned myself off it by only using it in one nostril, then every other night, and eventually – at last – not at all. Hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, is a set of symptoms triggered by your body's response – or overreaction – to pollen. If you're one of the unlucky 49% whose immune system sees pollen as a threat, your body 'protects' you from it by producing histamine and other chemicals that make your nose run, your eyes itch, and your head ache. I make light of how my body's own snotty overreaction affects my loo-roll bill, but for many people, the symptoms have a ruinous impact on their ability to work, sleep and simply enjoy summer. 'There isn't a 'one size fits all' in terms of symptoms,' says Desai of Nuffield Health. 'It comes down to the type of pollen you're allergic to and how your body responds to the allergies.' Some of the less common symptoms she mentions are allergic conjunctivitis, tightness in the chest and wheezing when breathing out. 'In some cases, medication may be needed to treat all three areas. If you suffer from severe hay fever, a GP can provide inhalers or oral steroids to help manage your overactive immune system.' Hay fever season lasts much longer than summer. Tree pollen arrives first, as early as February, when trees start to pollinate. This lasts until about mid-May, at which point grass is the chief offender, especially when the massive council lawnmowers are out. Flower pollen (known by some killjoys as 'weed pollen') comes next, from about June to September. More bad news: hay fever season is getting longer, and it's down to the climate crisis. The Met Office cites research that 'highlighted how increasingly unusual weather – as a result of climate change – coincided with increasingly erratic pollen seasons'. Other studies forecast that the climate emergency will increase the severity of hay fever season by up to 60%. Perhaps I then won't feel so silly going out in a Hepa mask and wraparounds. Jane Hoskyn is a journalist and WFH pioneer with three decades of experience in rearranging bookshelves and 'testing' coffee machines while deadlines loom. Her work has made her a low-key expert in all manner of consumables, from sports watches to solar panels. She would always rather be in the woods, ideally with a decent hay fever remedy to hand
Washington Post
26-05-2025
- Science
- Washington Post
What ancient pollen reveals about Earth's history
Pollen grains are far more than allergens — they are also nature's time capsules, preserving clues about Earth's past environments for millions of years. Pollen's tough outer shell enables it to survive long after its parent plants have disappeared. When pollen grains become trapped in sediments at the bottom of lakes, oceans and riverbeds, fossil pollen can provide scientists with a unique history of the environments where those pollen-producing plants were born. They can tell us about the vegetation, climate and even human activity through time.
CNET
26-05-2025
- Health
- CNET
Allergies Ruining Your Life? Experts Recommend These 13 Hacks for Soothing Allergies at Home
No, you're not imagining it -- your allergies are, in fact, getting worse. "Seasonal allergies have intensified, partly because climate change is making pollen seasons longer and more intense," says Dr. Abie H. Mendelsohn, M.D., F.A.C.S., of the Los Angeles Center for Ear, Nose, Throat and Allergy. "People with the traditional hay fever-type allergy symptoms are now [affected by] symptoms for more weeks of the year than the decades before." Fortunately, there are ways you can cope with your allergies at home, especially if antihistamines alone aren't giving you any relief. From an air purifier to nasal saline rinses and artificial tears, these are expert-recommended hacks for soothing your allergies. 1. Turn on your air purifier "Installing air purifiers or in-home air filters helps to reduce allergens in your indoor spaces," says Bria Collins, Au.D, CCC-A, audiologist and associate director of audiology practices at the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA). Dr. Gene Brown of Charleston ENT Association LLC, the president-elect of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, agrees, stating, "High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifiers can reduce airborne allergens such as pollen, pet dander and dust." He adds that HEPA purifiers can be especially beneficial in high-traffic areas around the home, like bedrooms. Dr. Pamela Georgeson of the Kenwood Allergy and Asthma Center also advises that you add HEPA filters to your HVAC systems to further reduce airborne allergens. 2. Avoid allergy triggers If allergies have got you down, it's important to figure out what is triggering your allergies in the first place. Then, avoid those triggers. "Allergy testing is essential for identifying individual allergy triggers," says Brown. "Minimizing exposure to these allergens is a foundational step in managing allergies." Brown lists the following strategies for steering clear of allergens: Avoiding outdoor activities during high pollen days Limiting contact with pets if allergic Steering clear of dusty or moldy environments On days when pollen counts are high, Mendelsohn advises, "Keep windows closed (use air conditioning instead) to avoid bringing pollen indoors." For people allergic to pets, Georgeson specifically recommends keeping pets out of your bedroom and frequent bathing and grooming of pets to reduce dander, which causes allergy symptoms. Mendelsohn adds that you should keep pets off upholstered furniture for this reason. 3. Control dust mites Georgeson recommends putting allergen covers on your pillows and mattresses to reduce exposure to dust mites. You can also wash this bedding in hot water to kill the dust mites. Brown adds that the water should be at least 130°F or 54°C. Brown also recommends regularly vacuuming upholstered furniture and carpets with a HEPA-filter vacuum and dusting surfaces frequently with a damp cloth. 4. Shower and change your clothes at homeIf you can't avoid going outside, especially on high-pollen days, Melanie Carver, chief mission officer of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), advises, "Take steps to reduce the amount of pollen that gets into your body and your home." She offers the following tips for doing so: Wear a head covering, like a hat or scarf, to prevent pollen from getting into your hair Wear a mask and sunglasses, especially if you have severe symptoms Remove your shoes and wash your hands when you return home Wipe down or bathe your pets if they've been outside Keep your pets out of the bedroom Brown also recommends showering, especially before bed, to prevent allergens from transferring to your bedding. 5. Sublingual immunotherapy Though traditional subcutaneous immunotherapy (allergy shots) does last three to five years, it requires regular office visits. However, according to Brown, there are at-home alternatives. "Sublingual immunotherapy (allergy drops placed under the tongue) and FDA-approved allergy tablets (containing specific allergens) offer convenient, long-term relief with the advantage of home administration," he explains. Consult your doctor to find which is best for you and your specific allergies. 6. Clean regularly Mendelsohn recommends cleaning your home regularly and vacuuming with a HEPA-filter vacuum to reduce indoor allergens like dust, mold and pet dander. Brown says the same, adding, "Choose non-toxic, fragrance-free cleaning products to avoid triggering allergy symptoms." 7. Consider a dehumidifier "Dust mites and mold thrive in humid environments," explains Brown, recommending a dehumidifier. "Maintaining indoor humidity levels below 50% can significantly reduce allergen levels. Use a humidity monitor (readily available online) to track moisture levels, especially in bedrooms and basements." If you notice any moisture problems in your home, Mendelsohn advises that you investigate the cause to prevent mold growth. 8. Use nasal saline rinses "Flushing out your nasal passages with a saltwater rinse can provide natural relief for nasal allergies," Mendelsohn says. Using a neti pot or squeeze bottle with a sterile saline solution, you can gently wash away pollen, dust and mucus from your nose and sinuses." Performing a daily saline rinse, especially after being outdoors, can soothe your sinuses and clear congestion. However, Mendelsohn warns, "Just be sure to use lukewarm distilled or previously boiled lukewarm water and keep your rinsing device clean to stay healthy." 9. Gargle with warm salt waterDr. Tania Elliott, MD, a spokesperson for the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, suggests gargling with warm salt water because "the coarse salt can help remove allergens and physically scratch the back of the throat." For additional relief, Elliott states that you can boil water, add fresh ginger and drink it to reduce inflammation in the sinuses, nasal passages and lungs. Placing fresh eucalyptus in the shower can also help open up the sinuses. 10. Apply a cool or warm compress to your ears For allergies that cause itchy or irritated ears, Collins advises applying a cool or warm compress to the ears for relief. "Inhaling steam may also help soothe and hydrate the mucous membranes in your ears, nose and throat," she adds. Collins emphasizes that you should never insert cotton swabs or anything small into your ear canals to relieve the itch. "This could cause further irritation to your ear canal or, if inserted too deep, could injure your eardrum," she explains. For individuals with ear or hearing problems caused by allergies, Collins advises that you consult a doctor -- or, specifically, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) physician -- to rule out other potential causes. This can include middle ear infections (for which you may need prescribed antibiotics), inner ear disorders and impacted earwax. 11. Use artificial tears for allergy-impacted eyes In addition to applying a cool compress for itch relief, Steven T. Reed, O.D., president of the American Optometric Association (AOA), says, "Artificial tears can also dilute allergens and wash away mucous, thus reducing discomfort." He specifically recommends using eye drops right when allergy season begins and then regularly after that -- instead of starting only when you notice symptoms. "This helps prevent histamine release and symptom exacerbation," he explains, adding that prescription alternatives may be needed if you can't find relief at home. Rubbing your eyes is also a bad idea. It causes mast cells to break and histamines to be released, which makes your symptoms worse. 12. Take an oatmeal bath for skin allergies If you have an allergic reaction on your skin, like hives or eczema patches, Mendelsohn states, "A tried-and-true method is an oatmeal bath: add colloidal oatmeal (finely ground oats) to lukewarm bathwater and soak for 10-15 minutes. This can calm itching and reduce redness on the skin." After the bath, Mendelsohn recommends applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or ointment (even plain coconut oil) to damp skin, so that moisture is locked in to repair the skin barrier. You should also ensure that you use mild, hypoallergenic soaps and laundry detergents to prevent chemicals or fragrances from worsening your skin allergies. 13. Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyleMendelsohn reminds us that getting proper sleep, maintaining a nutritious, balanced diet and reducing stress can all support your immune system, potentially making allergic reactions less severe. Collins adds that you should also ensure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. "Some people also try folk remedies like consuming local honey or taking natural supplements (such as butterbur or quercetin) for allergies," Mendelsohn states. "The evidence for these is limited, so use them with caution and check with your doctor to ensure there are no interactions with other medications or other medical issues." When to see a doctor for allergies "If symptoms are affecting their ability to do the things they love and they find themselves modifying their schedules due to allergies; missing work days; symptoms not getting better with OTC meds, they should see a board-certified allergist," explains Elliot, citing ACAAI's allergist finder. Georgeson adds that people who have asthma or recurrent/chronic sinusitis (sinus infections) should see an allergist. Mendelsohn also provides the following as additional signs you need to see a doctor for allergies: Severe or dangerous reactions: If you ever have symptoms of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction, treat it as an emergency. Signs of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the throat or face, severe hives, vomiting or feeling faint. In these cases, use an epinephrine auto-injector immediately if one is available and call 911. Do not try to handle severe reactions at home; prompt medical care can save a life. If you ever have symptoms of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction, treat it as an emergency. Signs of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the throat or face, severe hives, vomiting or feeling faint. In these cases, use an epinephrine auto-injector immediately if one is available and call 911. Do not try to handle severe reactions at home; prompt medical care can save a life. Suspected food allergies: If you suspect a food has caused an allergic reaction -- for example, if you develop hives, swelling or vomiting after eating -- you should consult a medical professional. Even if the reaction wasn't severe, identifying the trigger is important because future reactions could be worse. If you suspect a food has caused an allergic reaction -- for example, if you develop hives, swelling or vomiting after eating -- you should consult a medical professional. Even if the reaction wasn't severe, identifying the trigger is important because future reactions could be worse. Need for testing or advanced care: If you have frequent allergy symptoms and aren't sure of the trigger -- or if you want a more permanent solution -- consider seeing an allergist. They can perform tests to pinpoint your specific allergens and discuss treatments like immunotherapy (allergy shots or oral tablets) that can greatly reduce your sensitivities over time. For the ears, Collins says you should see a doctor or ENT if you have persistent ear pain, hearing loss (especially if it came on suddenly), drainage from your ears or dizziness, or if symptoms do not respond to over-the-counter management. Reed emphasizes that regular eye and vision examinations are essential, whether you have allergies or not. "Many eye and vision problems have no obvious signs or symptoms, so you might not know a problem exists," he explains, adding that you can use the AOA's doctor locator. The bottom line Allergies are getting worse, but there are natural ways you can soothe your body at home. Consider an air purifier, nasal saline rinses, keeping pets out of your bedroom, removing your clothes and showering after returning home and avoiding allergy triggers. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, consider seeing your doctor or an allergist. For severe allergic reactions, call 911.
