WARNINGS have been given of the first high grass pollen count of the year in the region later this week.
“With warm, fine, dry weather forecast this week, the first high grass pollen counts of the season are on their way in southern Scotland this week,” says airborne allergens expert and creator of HayMax allergen barrier balm, Max Wiseberg. “Pollen forecasts are high in Dumfries, Galloway, on Wednesday and Friday.
“This is the start of the first peak of the grass pollen season.”
Explaining what hayfever is, Max said: “Hay fever is a result of our immune system’s overreaction to innocuous allergens such as pollen. The body’s reaction to pollen is to produce histamines. Normal amounts of histamines in your brain are good – they keep you alert, attentive and awake. But, when there are too many in your body, they produce the various symptoms common to hay fever sufferers including sneezing, a runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, watery eyes, streaming eyes, swollen eyes and an itchy nose and throat.”
And he has shared some tips for sufferers, including:
* apply an allergen barrier balm around the rim of the nostrils and bones of the eyes first thing in the morning and before you go to bed, and as needed during the day to stop pollen getting in your body
* use an antihistamine, nasal spray or eye drops. Some are available over the counter from pharmacies, whilst others are available only on prescription.
* create your own ‘Hay Fever First Aid Kit’. Many natural and conventional products can be complementary to each other. Include an organic drug-free allergen barrier balm, one or more other natural products, only one antihistamine, only one nasal spray and eye drops.
* reduce the amount of airborne allergens around the home by vacuuming floors and carpets regularly, as well as fabrics and upholstery such as curtains and sofas. And damp dust surfaces.
* keep windows and doors closed to keep pollen out. Remove your shoes at the door and change your clothes after being out. If you have a pet, make sure you keep it clean and well groomed to help remove the pollen that collects in its fur.
* stop pollen getting in your hair and eyes when outdoors. Tie up long hair and wear a hat, cap or other head cover and wraparound sunglasses.
* rat and drink for your hay fever. Many foods contain the natural antihistamine, quercetin. Red onions, cherry tomatoes, kale, broccoli, apples and blueberries contain the highest amounts. Avoid dairy drinks and pick water or herbal tea instead.
