22 From inside the community Mill Road Surgery Hopefully as you read this the weather is warming up and you are all getting some nice sunshine after the very wet winter we’ve had! With the wet winter there is a higher chance that we may get higher pollen levels in the spring, so for those who normally suffer with hay fever make sure you’re well prepared. Our local pharmacies and supermarkets should be well stocked with a variety of anti-histamines that come in both tablet and liquid form, as well as eye drops and nasal sprays, all of which can be very beneficial in easing symptoms you may have. Symptoms can include: • coughing and sneezing • nasal congestion and/or runny nose • itchy throat, nose and ears • headaches • itchy, red or watery eyes • tiredness While some people get very mild symptoms, others can suffer badly over the warmer months and symptoms can be quite debilitating at times. There are a number of self-help ideas you can try to reduce symptoms such as: • put Vaseline around your nostrils to trap pollen • wear wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting into your eyes • shower and change your clothes after you have been outside • nasal rinsing is very effective at rinsing out pollen (please use a proper kit from the chemist though!) • try not to dry your clothes outside on days with a high pollen count • vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth • buy a pollen filter for the air vents in your car and a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter
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