Spring represents new beginnings with fresh blossoms and blue skies, but for millions of people, it symbolises the start of the dreaded seasonal allergies.
Hay fever, also called allergic rhinitis, causes cold-like signs and symptoms, such as a runny nose, itchy eyes, congestion, sneezing and sinus pressure.
It is caused by an allergic response to airborne substances such as pollen. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is more common in the spring due to increased pollen counts in the air.
Prevention Tips
- Try wearing wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting in your eyes when outdoors.
- Take a shower and change your clothes after being outdoors to remove the pollen on your body.
- Close doors and windows at night or any other time when pollen counts are high.
- Avoid outdoor activity in the early morning when pollen counts are highest
Treatment
Speak to a pharmacist or doctor who will give the best medical advice for your allergies as well as guidance on the costs that your medical plan could cover.
Treatment includes avoiding, eliminating, or decreasing exposure to allergens, medication, and immunotherapy, or allergy shots. Your pharmacist or GP could advise on antihistamine sprays or tablets, eye drops, nasal corticosteroids, oral corticosteroids, immunotherapy, or injections.
If you know you are an annual seasonal hay fever sufferer, speak to a Glopin Healthcare Consultant that can recommend a medical plan that has a high medical savings plan to cover costs of GP visits and medications.
