Its that time of year again where the pollen count is high, the sun is shining and we sometimes forget our daily activities can have an adverse effect on our hayfever.
Here are a few top tips we have learned over the years to reduce the symptoms:
Humidifier
We have invested in a humidifier, this really helps ease symptoms of hayfever such as coughing as it moisturises the airways. It is particularly useful during the night for us.
HEPA Vacuum
We vacuum regularly using a certified allergy approved vacuum with a HEPA filter, this is particularly useful if you have pets as they will also carry pollen around your house.
Pets
If you have pets that frequent the outdoors please make sure you limit their access to bedrooms, sofas etc. Our pets will also carry pollen around the house and spread it around prolonging the symptoms of hay fever.
Natural raw honey I think it is important to use local raw honey for the pollen in your area. We have been taking a teaspoon of local raw honey every morning, some days we have an extra two to three teaspoons depending on the pollen count that day. Raw honey is also known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that give relief from various symptoms of hay fever. Vaseline Using a cotton bud we apply a small amount of Vaseline to each nostril, gently coating the inside of the nose. Do this before leaving the house. This acts as a barrier and blocks pollen from entering the nasal passage. It really works for us. Vitamin C We have consciously increased out vitamin C intake, by consuming extra oranges, lemon water and other foods rich in Vitamin C. Being a natural anti histamine Vitamin C is a great way to boost your defence against Hay Fever. Just a reminder that our bodies can't make or store Vitamin C so it is important to ensure our daily diets contain it. Garlic Garlic has an array of health benefits. It boosts your immune system and acts a decongestant. Another great benefit of consuming garlic is that it contains quercetin a natural antihistamine. Raw garlic has the most benefit, however you can add in extra garlic at mealtimes or, if that idea really turns your stomach you can always buy the supplements from health food shops. Cucumber We use cucumber to soothe our eyes. Sometimes during hay fever season our eyes can get puffy and sore. A slice of cold cucumber on each eye really helps relieve the symptoms. Drying Clothes As a mum one of my first thoughts on a sunny day would be to get as much washing out on the line to dry as possible. We don't dry our washing outside anymore, by doing this we limit the amount of pollen trapped in our clothes or bedsheets. Showering Once we come home for the day after being outside, we take a shower, wash our hair and change our clothes. By doing this we reduce the pollen transferring around our home keep it as pollen free as we can. Windows We try and limit the opening of windows and doors on high pollen days as much as possible. We do this to prevent pollen spreading around our home. It is a struggle sometimes to keep the windows closed as I also love an airy home. So if I do need to open any windows I will try one room for a limited time and keep doors closed.
Antihistamines
These are also available if you need more help with your symptoms.
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