As we enter into the milder months of the year, every allergy sufferer can tell you that it’s bittersweet. Delighted to shed a layer or two while out and about, the one downside to spring/summer is the pollen count.
The IPU estimates that one in five Irish people suffer from hayfever, making that a lot of runny eyes and sniffling noses up and down the country right now. Hay fever can impact the way you live, from how well you sleep to your productivity throughout the day.
For those suffering, finding some comfort is a saving grace, and luckily, there are a number of ways you can help ease symptoms that don’t involve visiting your doctor for help.
Cut down on coffee
I know, it’s probably not the advice you wanted to hear. But, excess caffeine can higher your body’s histamine levels. So, it may be wise to cut down on the number of hot drinks you intake on high pollen days and instead reach for vitamin C-rich foods and drinks which are natural antihistamines such as orange juice and red peppers.
Wear some sunnies
You might think it silly to pop on a pair of sunglasses for a walk when the sun is covered by a layer of clouds, but it can help with allergies big time. Sunglasses work to protect your eyes against allergens blowing towards them, keeping them moistursed and pollen-free. If you have ones that wrap around your face – even better!
Use Vaseline
We all have a tin of it knocking around the house. Pop some vaseline around your nostrils to help catch some of the allergens before they get a chance to pass through. If you’re having a particularly bad day, pop some under your eyes too to help with runny, itchy eyes – the more moisturised your skin is, the more comfortable it will feel.
Change your routine
If you’re a morning showerer, it might be time to change up your routine. Showing in the evening is advisable so as to wash off any pollen that may gather on your skin, hair, or clothes. With that same thought, doing a bedsheet wash more often in summer is also advisable so as to avoid infecting your bed with pollen.
Dry your clothes inside
Of course, when we get a dry day it’s our natural instinct to throw on a wash and get them up on the line before the rain returns, but actually, for those suffering from allergies, this is a big no-no. Instead, during the months when pollen levels are high, dry your clothes and bedsheets indoors where pollen is less likely to catch onto them.