Health tips with Gilgandra Pharmacy

Pollen is present in the air most often in late winter/ early spring and summer when trees, plants and grasses are flowering.

Some people may experience symptoms of hayfever all year round if they react to allergens such as animal hair, mould, or dust.

As the weather starts to warm up in the coming weeks and months, it is important to be able to identify the symptoms of hayfever and how to manage them.

Signs and symptoms:

• Sneezing;

• Runny nose;

• Blocked nose (congestion);

• Itching nose, ears, mouth or throat;

• Puffy, itchy, watery and red eyes; and

• Headaches.

Despite these being the most common symptoms of hayfever, some people may experience others not listed as symptoms can vary from person to person. Similarly, these symptoms are not necessarily unique to hayfever and may be representative of other causes.

In line with the current COVID-19 recommendations, it is advised that if you experience symptoms this year which crossover with those of COVID-19 that you perform a rapid antigen test (RAT) or visit a PCR testing centre.

If required seek medical advice by contacting the COVID hotline on 1800 020 080, or phoning (not visiting) your local GP, hospital or designated COVID-19 testing centre.

Hayfever self care:

Hayfever can significantly disrupt the daily activities of those affected, but there are a few ways to protect yourself against early rhinitis and minimise your symptoms.

• Try to identify what the main causes of your allergy symptoms are. This is the best way to make sure you can avoid the triggers where possible.

• On days where there is a lot of pollen in the air (such as on windy days) try to avoid being outside.

• Avoid cigarette smoke and make your house smoke free. Ensuring your airways are healthy and not exposed to irritants can help protect against hay fever symptoms.

• Remove dust collectors from your home and clean your house regularly to remove mould and dust.

• Start thinking about a plan to manage your hay fever early. There are medications to prevent hay fever, as well as some which are used to control symptoms once they have started.

Some preventative medications are best started as early as possible in the hayfever season so it is a good idea to speak to your pharmacist or doctor as soon as possible to decide what options are best for you.