Spring is in full swing, with longer daylight hours and warmer weather, but for hay fever sufferers it also means the start of the dreaded pollen season. Caused by an allergic reaction to pollen from trees, grass or weeds, the peak of the hay fever season is from the end of May to the beginning of July. It is particularly potent during hot, humid and windy weather, which is typical when pollen counts are highest.
Typical allergy symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing and coughing, itchy and watery eyes, headache, fatigue, and an itchy throat and nose. Unfortunately for patients, there is currently no cure and hay fever cannot be prevented. However, there are measures that allergy sufferers can take to minimize exposure to allergens and relieve symptoms.
Besides not spending too much time outdoors, there are several ways in which the house can be 'hay fever proof'. Here are some tips for minimizing pollen in the home to alleviate the worst hay fever symptoms.
1. Clean regularly
Regular vacuuming and dusting of surfaces with a damp cloth can help remove pollen, dust, and pet dander (fur and skin particles) that can worsen allergy symptoms. Don't forget about hidden areas, such as behind sofas, behind radiators and in the corners of the room, as these places can contain more dust. You can also buy a special HEPA filter bag for your vacuum cleaner to further prevent very fine dust particles or pollen deposits from collecting.
2. Make use of exhaust fans
Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom to remove moisture and dust particles when in use. Turn on the hood before preheating the oven and let it run while you're cooking and a few minutes after you're done. Also keep the exhaust fan on when showering or bathing, as this removes excess moisture and prevents mold from forming. Also check your heating and cooling system and make sure the ducts are clean and there is good air filtration. You should also check your car's ventilation system for the cleanest possible airflow.
3. Clothes and laundry
Clothes and shoes can contain pollen and be transferred indoors, so wash clothes thoroughly and change clothes immediately after being outside. If you suffer from hay fever, do not dry your laundry outside as this is a magnet for pollen that can fall and cling to damp clothes or sheets and then be transferred back home. Dry clothes indoors whenever possible. However, for people with an allergy to mold, it is advisable not to dry the laundry indoors to prevent moisture from building up in the house.
4. Ensure good ventilation
Hay fever sufferers should keep windows and doors closed as much as possible, especially during pollen-heavy days. Pollen counts are highest between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., so limit outdoor exposure during these times, especially if the morning is warm and dry. Open windows and doors at night to prevent irritants from lingering in rooms. Create a stronger passage by opening windows and doors on the other side of the room if possible. Good daily ventilation to disperse particles that build up in the home and reduce humidity is also crucial for people with allergies caused by indoor allergens.
5. Replace bedding on time
Pillows should ideally be replaced every 18 months. Within two years of use, one third of a pillow's weight is made up of dirt, oil, dead skin and dust mites – not good news for allergy sufferers. Use allergen-resistant barrier covers on the mattress, duvet and pillows to prevent allergens from becoming trapped, and wash all bedding regularly to prevent pollen transmission. And as with pillows, it is advisable to replace your mattress every 8-10 years. It is worth choosing a mattress and pillows with removable, washable covers to promote the best possible hygiene of the bedding. Wash it at 60°C as the higher water temperature kills most bacteria.
6. Other tips
Pollen from fresh cut flowers can worsen the symptoms of hay fever, as can smoke particles from burning candles and smoking. Avoid household cleaners with a high chemical content, as the fumes can speed up coughing, and try to cut down on alcohol, as most alcohol contains histamine, the chemical that triggers allergy symptoms. Take a shower before going to bed to wash away pollen on your body; you can also leave your clothes in a separate room to prevent pollen from being transferred from outside.
Nettle and chamomile can address symptoms through their anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, so it's worth swapping your usual cup of tea or coffee for these herbal alternatives. Keep your bedroom free of odors such as perfume, cleaning products, scented candles and sprays to prevent an itchy nose, mouth and throat at night.
