How to prep yourself for hay fever season

How to Prepare Yourself for the Hay Fever Season

Bykristof

Hay fever season usually spans from late March to September, peaking in April due to tree pollen. As the seasons shift, those affected prepare for months of sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. While antihistamines and sprays offer relief, lifestyle changes like tracking pollen and adjusting your diet can also help manage symptoms. To help you get ahead of hay fever season, Harley Street Private GP and Founder of Hannah London, Dr. Kaywaan Khans hares 7 expert-backed strategies to manage symptoms and enjoy the warmer months with more ease.  

  1. Know your allergy triggers 

Hay fever can occur at different times of the year, depending on what allergens you’re allergic to. That’s why taking an allergy test can help pinpoint certain allergens that may be worsening your symptoms, whether it’s pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. By knowing this, you’ll be able to limit exposure to certain plants, animals, and other allergens that may exacerbate your symptoms. Once you understand your triggers, you can tailor your treatment plan with a qualified medical professional for better symptom control. 

  1. Monitor daily pollen forecasts 

It could be worth planning your daily activities according to local pollen forecasts. By keeping up with the pollen count, you’ll know when allergy season starts in your area and can take targeted precautions. On high-pollen days, you can avoid outdoor activities like gardening or lawnmowing. Instead, try scheduling these activities in the early morning or evening, when pollen is lower. Plus, wearing a carbon filter mask outdoors can also help reduce exposure. 

  1. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters 

Investing in an air purifier with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter can trap up to 99.97% of airborne allergens inside your home. I recommend placing air purifiers in key areas, such as bedrooms and living spaces, and cleaning the filters regularly to maintain optimal air quality. Additionally, if you have air conditioning units in your home, you can similarly use this as an air purifier to filter out airborne allergens. Air conditioning systems can also help control humidity levels inside the home, preventing allergens like mold and dust mites from growing. 

  1. Stock up on allergy medication 

For individuals with chronic allergies, it’s best to start taking your medications early. Over-the-counter antihistamines, steroid nasal sprays, and eye drops can help manage early onset symptoms better and can prevent them from worsening over time. In fact, some medications work best when taken consistently before the start of hay fever season, helping the body to build up resistance. If you’re unsure which medication to take, consider booking a GP consultation for personalised advice and a treatment plan tailored to your needs. 

  1. Keep windows and doors closed 

Keep windows and doors shut inside the home as much as possible to prevent pollen from entering and triggering your symptoms. Use air conditioning systems or fans to circulate the air and maintain balanced humidity levels indoors. If you need to go outside, wear wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes from airborne pollen which can cause itchiness and irritation. When indoors, make sure to wash your hands and face to remove any lingering pollen, dust, or dander that can transfer from outdoor surfaces. Showering and changing clothes after being outside can help prevent allergens from spreading indoors and worsening hay fever symptoms. 

  1. Eat food rich in quercetin and Vitamin C 

A diet rich in nutrients can help strengthen your immune system, reducing hay fever symptoms by lowering inflammation and improving your body’s response to allergens. Quercetin, found in onions, apples, and leafy greens, has natural antihistamine properties that can help reduce itching, sneezing, or congestion. Meanwhile, Vitamin C supports immune function and can reduce histamine (a chemical released by white blood cells when the immune system detects an allergen) levels in the body. If you struggle to get your daily intake of nutrients, consider IV infusion therapy for an extra boost of essential antioxidants to support immune function. As well, drink plenty of water to help clear your airways and ease allergy-related discomfort. 

  1. Consider immunotherapy for long-term relief 

For those struggling with severe or chronic hay fever, immunotherapy can be an effective long-term solution. This treatment gradually desensitises your immune system to allergens, allowing your body to slowly adjust to controlled exposure. This can reduce the severity of allergic reactions over time and minimise discomfort. Immunotherapy typically involves a series of injections or sublingual immunotherapy tablets (SLIT) taken over several months or years. Before considering immunotherapy, consult your GP about a blood test to assess your allergy history and symptom severity to determine if you’re a suitable candidate. 

If you’re struggling with hay fever symptoms, book a consultation with one of our Private GPs here: https://hannahlondon.com/contact/ 

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