A pharmacist has offered five tips to safeguard against hay fever as a “pollen bomb” descends on the UK, causing discomfort for millions. The expert emphasises that preparation “is key” in managing unwanted symptoms.
The Met Office has alerted that eight regions of the UK will be most affected by pollen this week, with a “very high” red alert issued for the south of England and Wales on Saturday. Mital Thakrar, a pharmacist from Well Pharmacy Online Doctor, clarified that it’s tree pollen causing issues currently, not grass.
He explained: “Tree pollen, particularly birch pollen, tends to be the most aggressive allergen in spring, affecting up to 25 per cent of hay fever sufferers in the UK. White ash and elm follow closely behind.
“Each type of pollen can cause slightly different symptoms, with birch typically leading to severe eye irritation, while ash and elm often trigger more respiratory complaints.”
Mital further elaborated on how to differentiate between them. He stated: “A lot of people don’t realise that although grass pollen is typically the most common cause of hay fever, it doesn’t peak until early summer. Therefore, many confuse it with tree pollen, which is the main culprit in early spring.
“So if you’re sneezing and dealing with itchy eyes in March or April, tree pollen is likely to blame. But if your allergies hit hardest in May, June, or July, grass pollen could be the trigger.”
The Met Office has issued data indicating that pollen levels will remain high until April 13. Mital explained: “The term ‘pollen bomb’ refers to when a sudden temperature increase prompts trees and plants to release large amounts of pollen simultaneously.
“This can significantly worsen hay fever symptoms due to the spike in pollen levels. A ‘pollen bomb’ also implies that different types of pollen, such as grass and tree pollen, can be released at the same time, triggering more severe reactions.”
“The key to managing spring allergies is preparation,” stated Mital. “Taking preventative measures before pollen counts reach their peak can significantly reduce symptom severity.” He outlined five steps for those susceptible to hay fever.
Mital advised: “Beginning antihistamines about two weeks prior to the start of allergy season can build up protection in your system and prevent symptoms from taking hold.”
“An air purifier can be a worthwhile investment. It aids in removing pollen and other allergens from indoor air, reducing sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes,” he continued. “For optimal results, opt for one with a HEPA filter and keep windows closed on high pollen days to maximise its effectiveness.”
Mital suggested: “Checking pollen counts each morning allows you to plan outdoor activities strategically and adjust medication timing when counts are expected to spike. The Met Office provides an upfront five-day pollen forecast, including which type of pollen is predicted to be high. “.
“Pollen particles cling to fabric and can continue to trigger symptoms for hours, so changing clothes after coming inside is like removing a mobile allergen source,” he explained.
He further advised: “Wraparound sunglasses create a physical barrier that helps prevent pollen from reaching the sensitive conjunctiva of your eyes, reducing itching and redness.”
For those suffering from severe reactions, it may be necessary to consult with a GP to discuss prescription-strength remedies.
At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the “Do Not Sell or Share my Data” button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our Privacy Notice and Cookie Notice.
