THE onset of warmer weather is not always good news to everyone - especially those who battle with hay fever during the summer months.
Thousands of Irish people have been warned of a "high pollen weekend" ahead with temperatures set to soar as high as 21C.
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The Asthma Society of Ireland have issued urgent advice on managing asthma and hay fever ahead of the bank holiday.
Hay fever affects a "significant portion" of the population, with over 450,000 Irish people living with asthma and 80 per cent of those also experiencing hay fever.
The hay fever season runs from March to September.
The Asthma Society said: "Proper management techniques can significantly improve quality of life, especially when wanting to enjoy the outdoors."
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The organisation is urging everyone to take precautions and manage their hay fever symptoms.
It is also reminding those with asthma that unmanaged hay fever can trigger an asthma attack.
A combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes can help people adequately manage hay fever.
Appropriate medication, including antihistamines and immunotherapy, can be accessed through your GP or pharmacist.
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In a recent survey conducted by the The Asthma Society of over 1,200 people living with asthma and/or hay fever, 76 per cent with hay fever admitted it limits daily activities and has a "disruptive effect" on their lives.
GP-approved hay fever tips that really will stifle the sneezes
Almost four in five revealed that during the hay fever season their or their child's participation in sports or activities is disrupted due to hay fever.
Prof Patrick Mitchell, a respiratory consultant physician at Tallaght University Hospital and member of the Asthma Society of Ireland’sMedical Advisory Group said hay fever management is vital.
He explained: "During periods of elevated pollen levels, hay fever or allergic rhinitis can pose particularly serious health risks for people with asthma.
"It's important for individuals, especially those with asthma, to take preventative measures to minimise hay fever symptoms.
HAY FEVER SYMPTOMS
Typical symptoms of seasonal hay fever and perennial allergic rhinitis are not limited to just a few, but can include a number of the following:
- Sneezing, as well as an itchy, blocked, or runny nose
- Red, itchy, or watery eyes
- An itchy throat, inner ear, or mouth
- A post-nasal drip
- A diminished sense of taste and smell
- Headaches, reduced concentration, and a general feeling of unwellness
"Often, antihistamines and, if needed, steroidal nasal sprays will relieve symptoms."
Ruth Morrow, a Respiratory Nurse Specialist at the Asthma Society said proper management techniques are important.
Claiming that panning ahead is "essential", Morrow explained that people should take their antihistamines as prescribed and use nasal sprays to alleviate congestion.
Wearing wraparound sunglasses to protect the eyes from pollen and splashing your eyes with cold water to flush out and soothe them can also help.
HOW TO ALLEVIATE HAYFEVER
According to Morrow, there are also other ways you can manage your hay fever:
- Avoid exercising outside when the pollen count is high, and wear a cycle mask when cycling.
- Shower, wash your hair and change your clothes if you have been outdoors for an extended period.
- Avoid drying clothes outdoors because pollen spores may cling to them.
- Try to stay away from grassy areas and avoid mowing the lawn, as clouds of pollen can be created. Consider creating an allergy-friendly garden.
- Minimise contact with pets that have been outside, as pollen can linger on their fur.
- Keep your car windows closed when driving. Some cars can be fitted with a pollen filter.
- Apply a barrier gel/spray to the nostrils to prevent pollen from settling in the nose.
- Discuss the use of treatments for hay fever with your pharmacist or GP.
- For those with asthma, make sure you have a personalised Asthma Action Plan. An Asthma Action Plan sets out the steps each patient needs to take to stay well with asthma and how to manage flare-ups when they happen.
The Asthma Society spoke to some people who suffer from hay fever to find out how they manage their symptoms.
Biola Wyrwas, from Dublin, finds the Asthma Society of Ireland's Adviceline service "invaluable" for additional support during hay fever season.
Her and her family have made adjustments to their life; closing windows at night and not drying their clothes out on summer days.
James Clegg, from Dublin, who has asthma and allergies, plans ahead so he can enjoy an active lifestyle during hay fever season.
He avoids freshly cut grass and wears wraparound sunglasses while walking outside.
He also schedules outdoor activities in the morning when the pollen fall is lower, showers afterward, and changes clothes to prevent pollen from entering his home.
