Allergy Essentials: How to Make Sure Allergies Won’t Ruin Your day

One in five Australians suffer from hayfever (allergic rhinitis). If you’re one of the many who are regularly affected, you know the importance of staying on top of your allergy symptoms. But even when you’re prepared, it’s still possible to get caught off guard -- and a sudden onset of hayfever can drastically derail your plans.

Fortunately, there are allergy management solutions that you can implement to make sure that you can get on with your day, even if symptoms do strike unexpectedly.

Check the Pollen Count

Pollen is a common trigger for many who suffer from allergic rhinitis (hayfever), so it pays to keep an eye on the levels that are in the air. Recently, the Australian Pollen Allergen Partnership was formed to create a nationally standardised system for monitoring pollen activity.

Before heading out the door, check the pollen forecast so that you can adequately prepare. On days that the forecast is ‘very high’ or ‘extreme’, consider limiting your time outdoors (if possible). Keep your windows closed if there’s significant pollen activity and remember to dry any laundry inside the house.

Pack an allergy emergency kit

If you suffer from regular hayfever, consider creating an allergy relief kit that you can keep in your car. Alongside medicinal essentials there are a few other items that might help prevent or mitigate a sudden onset of allergy symptoms:

Sunglasses: Itchy eyes are a common symptom of allergic rhinitis, caused by contact with allergens in the air. Sunglasses can help to prevent pollen and other irritants like pet dander from coming in contact with your eyes, reducing (or preventing) allergic reactions. Try to pick a pair that offers some protection from the side, not just the front.

Vaseline: Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to your nostrils helps to create a protective barrier that will trap pollen and other allergens before they enter the nose.

Face masks: If your symptoms are severe, consider wearing a disposable face mask when spending time outdoors. Keep a few on hand and use as needed.

Reduce your exposure

If you’ve been outside on days with a high pollen count, change your clothes as soon as you get home as pollen particles can embed themselves in fabric. It’s also a good idea to jump in the shower to rinse off any allergens that might be clinging to your skin and hair. If you’re experiencing irritated eyes, flush them regularly with water to minimise discomfort.

Need hayfever relief? Take back control with Nasonex^® Allergy nasal spray.

The materials on this site have been prepared for general information purposes only. They are not intended to be relied on as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

References

- ASCIA, ‘Allergen Minimisation’, www.allergy.org.au, 2016 (Accessed September 2018)
- Health Direct, ‘Hay Fever Self Care’, www.healthdirect.gov.au, 2017 (Accessed September 2018)
- NHS, ‘Hay Fever’, www.nhs.uk, 2017 (Accessed September 2018)
- Health Direct, ‘Hay Fever Self Care’, www.healthdirect.gov.au, 2017 (Accessed September 2018)
- ASCIA, ‘Pollen Allergy’, www.allergy.org.au, 2017 (Accessed September 2018)