As the hay fever season approaches, many individuals are seeking effective treatments to alleviate their symptoms. Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to pollen, which can be released from a number of natural sources including trees or grass.
The main symptoms of hay fever include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes and throat. There is currently no cure for the condition, but many people are able to ease or control their symptoms with treatment. Thankfully many people find their symptoms improve with age and can disappear completely in some cases.
You are typically more likely to get hay fever if it runs in your family, or if your family has a history of asthma or eczema.
In the UK, hay fever is at its peak between late March and early September:
Tree pollen is the first to kick things off for sufferers, beginning in March
Grass pollen season then starts from mid-May until July
Another pesky customer is weed pollen, which can be released at any time but typically is from the end of June to September
Symptoms of hay fever normally occur when the pollen count is above 50. Pollen is a fine powder released by plants as part of their pollination cycle, The spores then travel in the air for the plants to be grown elsewhere when the pollen lands.But it contains a protein that can cause the nose, eyes, throat and sinuses to become swollen and irritated if a person is allergic to it. This gets more intense if the pollen count is high, meaning lots of plants have released spores all at once.
While over-the-counter remedies like antihistamines and nasal sprays provide relief for some, others may require more potent solutions. At Pall Mall we offer a range of hay fever treatments to suit our patients. You can book a same or next day GP appointment at our Manchester city centre clinic to discuss your symptoms and the most appropriate treatment.
Booking an appointment could provide relief throughout the entire pollen season to allow you to get back outdoors and enjoy the upcoming spring and summer months!
To find out more and book an appointment today visit our website or call us on 0161 832 2111.
