Pharmacy Assistant - Green Cross Publishing

• Bedroom windows should be kept closed in the morning
and evening as these are times when the pollen count is
particularly high.
• Bed clothes should be washed regularly in very hot water;
a mattress protector should be used and the mattress
vaccumed on a regular basis.
• For those who have to venture out, it can sometimes help to
put some Vaseline around the inside of the nose.
• Wrap-around sunglasses will help prevent pollen attacking
the eyes.
• Car windows should be kept closed.
• Keep away from parks and open fields, again particularly in
the early evening.
• Avoid putting out washing when the pollen count is high.
• When planning a garden, try and choose low risk plants.
• Before venturing into the garden sprinkle it with a fine spray
of water in order to dampen down air pollen.
• It seems obvious but at all costs avoid cutting the grass!
• Animals often pick up pollen when they are outside so it is
worth rubbing them down with a damp towel when they reenter
the house.
• On fine days head for the seaside for some guaranteed relief.
TreATmenT
In recent years the medicines available have not just become
more effective but also have less side effects.
Anti-histamines - anti-histamines and nasal sprays are the
first line of attack. Unlike the old anti-histamines, the newer
generation do not cause drowsiness. Anti-histamines are
relatively cheap and start working within a few hours. They inhibit
the effect of histamines, which are released on foot of an allergic
reaction – it is the histamines release that causes the symptoms
of hay fever. They will relieve sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes,
and itchy ears and palate.
Steroids - these are very effective in treating nasal symptoms.
They suppress the allergic response in the first place and help
reduce inflammation. Where possible they should be started at
least seven days prior to the start of the hay fever season. They
are very effective when combined with an anti-histamine in the
first week.
Nasal decongestants - these are effective for mild symptoms.
They should be used only in the short term, three to five days at
most, as overuse can cause rebound and so ultimately make the
problem worse. That said, a short sharp dose will help unblock
the nose.
Sodium cromoglycate (nose spray or eye drops) - this is
effective in relieving mild to moderate symptoms but less so
in treating more severe attacks. Treatment should be initiated
before the onset of the pollen season. It is useful in treating
children.
De-sensitisation treatment or immunotherapy - in cases of
severe, long-term hay fever, immunotherapy or desensitisation
treatment may be an option. An allergy specialist will gradually
introduce small amounts of the substance that the patient is
allergic to. A small amount of an allergen such as pollen or a fungi
is injected into the body and the allergic reaction is monitored.
Alternative therapies - There is anecdotal evidence that some
herbal remedies, homeopathy and acupuncture may help relieve
or prevent hay fever symptoms, but there is little scientific
research to back this up.