Stay one step ahead of hay fever with hay-band. Despite its name, hay fever is not caused by hay and doesn’t involve a fever!
Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction that occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne substances like pollen. It commonly affects the nasal passages, sinuses, throat, and eyes, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
Women Talking looks at what hay fever is, its causes, symptoms, and ways to manage it.
What Causes Hay Fever?
Hay fever is triggered by allergens, which are typically harmless substances that provoke an immune response in certain individuals. Common allergens include:
Pollen: Trees, grasses, and weeds release pollen into the air, especially during specific seasons (spring, summer, and autumn).
Dust mites: Tiny insects that thrive in household dust.
Animal dander: Proteins found in the skin flakes, saliva, and urine of furry pets.
Mold: Spores from indoor and outdoor moulds.
Other irritants: Cigarette smoke, strong odours, and air pollution can also exacerbate hay fever symptoms.
Symptoms of Hay Fever
The symptoms of hay fever can range from mild to severe and often resemble those of a cold. They include:
Sneezing: Frequent and uncontrollable sneezing fits.
Runny or stuffy nose: Clear, watery nasal discharge or nasal congestion.
Itchy eyes, nose, or throat: Persistent itching in these areas.
Watery eyes: Red, swollen, and watery eyes.
Coughing: Often due to postnasal drip.
Fatigue: Feeling tired due to disrupted sleep or constant discomfort.
Managing Hay Fever
While there is no cure for hay fever, several strategies can help manage its symptoms and improve quality of life:
- Apply Some Pressure
The principles of ancient Chinese acupressure have been used for centuries to help treat the symptoms of allergy, including hay fever.
Hay-band, now a Women Talking favourite, works by applying pressure to the acupressure point on either arm, called the LI-11 point.
Acupressure is believed to increase the flow of natural energy through the stimulation of various pressure points and in doing so, help unblock energy pathways to the nose and throat, and promote wellbeing.
The LI-11 point can be found at the end of the crease at the elbow. Once located, simply slide a hay-band into position so that the button faces inwards over the pressure point, with the bands passing either side of the elbow.
The band is fast-acting and may be worn on either arm or if symptoms are acute, one can be worn on both arms. Drug-free, natural and discreet, hay-band can also be worn as a preventative. An additional bonus is that it can be washed, so used time and time again.
- Avoid Allergens
Stay indoors: During high pollen counts, usually in the morning or on windy days.
Keep windows closed: Use air conditioning to filter the air.
Shower and change clothes: After being outdoors to remove pollen from your body and clothes.
Use protective measures: Wear sunglasses and a hat to keep pollen out of your eyes and hair.
- Medications
Antihistamines: Reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Available over the counter or by prescription.
Decongestants: Relieve nasal congestion. Can be taken orally or as a nasal spray.
Nasal corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and are effective for nasal symptoms.
Eye drops: Relieve itchy and watery eyes.
- Immunotherapy
Allergy shots: Gradually desensitise your immune system to specific allergens over time.
Sublingual tablets: Dissolve under the tongue and work similarly to allergy shots.
- Home Remedies
Saline nasal sprays: Help flush out allergens and reduce nasal congestion.
Steam inhalation: Can help soothe nasal passages and clear congestion.
Neti pots: Use saline solutions to rinse the nasal passages.
- Lifestyle Changes
Maintain a clean home: Regularly vacuum and dust to reduce allergens.
Use air purifiers: These can help filter out airborne allergens.
Monitor pollen forecasts: Stay updated on pollen levels in your area.
Hay fever may put a damper on your springtime festivities, but armed with the right knowledge and treatment, you can effectively manage its symptoms and reclaim your enjoyment of the great outdoors. Whether through avoidance strategies, medications, or alternative therapies, there’s a plethora of options available to help you combat hay fever and breathe easier this allergy season.
If you suspect you have hay fever or your symptoms are severe, consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.
Lilly Light