Professor Adam Fox's hay fever remedies that actually work
Across the UK, millions of hay fever sufferers are already experiencing dreaded runny noses, sore eyes and itchy throats. Experts say climate change and rising levels of air pollution are partially to blame for the early arrival of this year's pollen season. And if you're amongst the unlucky ones - leading allergy expert, Professor Adam Fox is joining us with his advice.
Hay fever affects around one in five people at some point in their lifetime, and as we enter spring - many will be worried about how the increased pollen count will affect them. Most sufferers tend to experience varying degrees of sore, itchy and irritated eyes, as well as feeling congested if the hay fever is left untreated
The Met Office states that the pollen season separates into three main sections: tree pollen in late-March to mid-May, grass pollen in mid-May to July, and weed pollen from the end of June to September.
So what does Professor Adam suggest?
What are some of the drug treatments available?
Antihistamines oral tablets
"Antihistamines are the best first-line treatment and help with the actual allergic reaction to the pollen. You want a long lasting, anti-drowsy medication - cetirizine or loratadine are both good options."
Nasal sprays
"Nasal sprays contain steroids and sometimes have antihistamines encorporated. The spray tackles the issue directly and strictly in the nasal area. I recommend starting the nasal spray before the season really kicks in."
Eye drops
“Drops can also contain antihistamines, but are mainly used to reduce inflammation if you suffer with puffiness around the eyes. Most eye symptoms aren't from pollen getting in the eyes, it's a reflex from the nose - so think about using nasal spray first.”
What about natural remedies - are they as god as they claim?
Local honey
"Sadly honey is an urban myth. This is based on the idea of immunotherapy - when a doctor would usually introduce a small amount of something that their patient was allergic to and increase the dosage as the time goes on. There really isn't a huge amount of evidence that it does work."
Barrier balm
"A barrier balm definitely does work and there are many types out there. I would recommend vaseline around the nostrils which is more preventative than a treatment."
What if nothing makes a difference?
"The next stage if none of this works could be desensitisation - it is a treatment that makes you less allergic and it can be really effective. It works by putting a tablet under your tongue and having a high dose of pollen. It's harder to get and is only through specialists, but can be a lifeline for some people."