As the pollen bomb continues to wreak havoc on daily life for hay fever sufferers, a few simple tricks could keep the pollen at bay.
With summer in full swing and no sign of pollen levels dropping anytime soon, those suffering from hay fever may feel somewhat imprisoned in their own homes.
However, allergies shouldn’t stop Brits from soaking up the sun, as one expert shares some easy tips for venturing outdoors during the pollen onslaught.
Breathing in pollen and other pollutants can have a severe impact on those with allergies and hay fever, but Emily Lockwood has revealed how Brits can keep these irritants out of their respiratory system.
The director at Air Physiotherapy, stated: “The summer season can bring about a range of allergy symptoms, which can make being outside unbearable and make exercising outdoors seem like an insurmountable challenge.
Sharing her top six tips for braving the outdoors during the pollen bomb, Emily added: “Nobody wants to be cooped up indoors, so following these hacks may make dealing with pollen and pollution levels a tad easier and allow you to fully enjoy the warmer weather.
Petroleum jelly
One unique tip Emily shared involved applying petroleum jelly around your nostrils. She explained that this will help trap pollen before it enters your respiratory tract and reduces the amount of pollen being inhaled.
Check ahead
The allergy-afflicted individuals are being encouraged to verify the air quality index and level of pollen in their region before stepping out, especially for physical activities. Just so you know, a heightened pollen count of 50 to 150 grass pollen count can easily be checked on the Met Office site.
Timing
In terms of timing, UNTIL’s physiotherapist suggested: “Pollution levels tend to be lower in the early morning and late evening, so exercising during these times is your best bet to reduce allergy symptoms – especially during summer months when pollution tends to soar.”
Shielding
Emily highly recommends donning wraparound sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats to shield yourself from unpleasant particles airborne. Specifically, such devices as “onion goggles to prevent tearing eyes when chopping” can be employed as an effective tool against typical summer allergies too.
Post-workout routines
Nasal rinsing was the go-to method proposed by Emily. This involved directing saline water through one’s nasal cavities, effectively flushing out harmful airborne pollutants and debris. Coupled with an immediate shower and changing attire upon returning home, this won’t just halt pollen residue from further invading your living space.
Medication
Lastly, appropriate use of medication. Allergy medications are easy to access and treatments off the shelf for individual symptoms can also help people to get a grip of and regulate their reactions, however, Emily emphasised people should use these “as prescribed by a healthcare provider”.
She also issued a cautionary note: “It’s important to remember that prolonged exposure to pollutants can have harmful effects on your brain and cognitive function – so ensuring you take other recommended steps to reduce exposure wherever possible is key.