Allergies are very common. They’re thought to affect more than 1 in 4 people in the UK at some point in their lives*. Source : https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergies/

Typical symptoms of an allergic reaction to normally harmless substance such as pollen from grass, trees and flowers, dust mites, pet dander (tiny flakes of animal skin) and mold, include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose and sore, itchy, watery or puffy eyes.

Allergies can have a real impact on your day to day life so be prepared with Pollenase.

Discover our tips & advice for helping to manage common day to day allergies and take back control of your day.

Our information and advice is aimed at covering the most common environmental allergies, such as hay fever, dust mites, and mold and some of the most common skin allergies such as Urticaria (hives) and contact dermatitis .Our information and advice  does not address life-threatening anaphylactic reactions (in this instance seek urgent medical advice) , or allergies to food, medications, or insects (in these instances consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice)

Tips & Advice for managing hay fever

The pollen season is divided into three main phases:

  • Tree pollen: late March to mid-May
  • Grass pollen: mid-May to July
  • Weed pollen: end of June to September
It’s not always easy on a warm, sunny day, but staying indoors and keeping windows closed is one of the best ways to avoid pollen. Be sure to check the pollen forecast and avoid going outside on days where it’s rated ‘High’. It’s worth noting that pollen levels do tend to be higher earlier in the morning as well as the late evening, but occasionally they can remain high throughout the day. Avoid grassy areas, such as parks and fields, particularly in the early morning, evening or night, when the pollen count is highest . if you have a lawn, try asking someone else to cut the grass for you When travelling by car, keep the windows shut to avoid pollen getting into the car. Most modern cars are fitted with a pollen filter, so make sure it’s working efficiently . For days where avoiding pollen simply isn’t possible, ensure you’re stocked up on your preferred form of treatment.

Sunglasses don’t just protect you from damaging UV rays, they can also reduce the amount of pollen and dust getting into your eyes. Try a wraparound style of sunglasses for a particularly effective solution. Another common tip is to apply a petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, around your nostrils to trap pollen and avoid it irritating your nose.

– vacuum flooring and soft  furnishing regularly to help reduce allergen levels. If possible, consider replacing carpets with hard-surface flooring. – wash bedding frequently & if possible invest in anti-allergy bedding protectors. – consider an air purifier which can help reduce allergen levels.

After coming home from being outside, shower and thoroughly wash your hair to remove pollen particles that can cause irritation. If you can’t do so straight away, make a point of showering before bed to avoid getting pollen on your pillowcase. Similarly, it’s a good idea to change your clothes once inside, and avoid hanging any clean laundry outside where pollen may stick to it.

There are a number of over the counter medicines that can help treat the symptoms of hay fever and allergies including antihistamine tablets, nasal sprays and eye drops.  These are available without  the need for a doctor’s prescription.  Ask your pharmacist or doctor about the most suitable product for you. Pollenase has a range of products to treat hay fever and allergies

There’s a lot you can do to help manage and minimise the symptoms of pet allergies with some simple lifestyle changes.

– keep your pet out of your bedroom and restrict  it to only a few rooms – try to resist stroking or hugging  your pet.  If you do, wash your hands afterwards with soap and water. – give your pet a bath or shower once a week to reduce airborne dog allergen – vacuum flooring and soft  furnishing regularly to help reduce allergen levels. If possible, consider replacing carpets with hard-surface flooring. – wash pet bedding frequently – consider an air filter in a bedroom or living room which can reduce allergen levels over time

There’s a lot you can do to help manage and minimise the symptoms of indoor allergies caused by house dust mites and mold with some simple lifestyle changes.

Dust mite allergens are a common trigger of allergy and asthma symptoms. While they can be found throughout the house, these microscopic creatures thrive in warm, humid environments such as bedding, upholstered furniture and carpeting. –  encase mattresses, duvets and pillows in special allergen-proof fabric covers Because so much time is spent in the bedroom, it is essential to reduce mite levels there. – Wash bedding weekly – Use a dehumidifier to lower humidity levels. – vacuum flooring and If possible, consider replacing carpets with hard-surface flooring. –  vacuum and wash or dry clean soft  furnishings regularly . –  dust regularly using a damp cloth which will pick up more dust

Molds can be found in damp areas in the home like basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms or anywhere with leaks. Keeping your home as clean and dry as possible will help prevent mold  from forming. If mold does exist, then avoiding contact with the mold spores can help reduce allergy symptoms and there are several ways you can do this : – Remove mold growth on hard surfaces with water and detergent, then  dry the area completely (if mold covers a wide area, consider hiring a professional to do it). – Makes sure rooms are well ventilated to deter mold and mildew growth. – Close kitchen and bathroom doors when cooking or bathing, and avoid hanging damp clothes over radiators – Use a de-humidifier in damp rooms to reduce humidity levels (high humidity can cause mold to thrive), but clean the unit regularly to prevent mildew from forming – Repair and seal leaking roofs or pipes. –  Avoid carpeting on concrete or damp floors, and storing items in damp areas.

There are a number of over the counter medicines that can help treat the symptoms of allergies including antihistamine tablets, nasal sprays and eye drops. These are available without the need for a doctor’s prescription.  Ask your pharmacist or doctor about the most suitable product for you. Pollenase has a range of products to treat common allergies.