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About
one in five people in the UK will suffer from hayfever this summer. Hayfever
is an allergic reaction to pollen produced by plants and trees. The pollen enters our bodies through
our eyes, nose and mouth. Our bodies react to this invasion by producing
histamine, which is a chemical that encourages the body to wash away the
pollen. This is what leads to watering eyes, runny noses and heavy sneezing.
All that extra water is the bodies effort to wash away the pollen.
The condition was first recognised back in the early 1800's, and people have
been trying to find a cure ever since. Now if you've come here looking for
the magic pill that will fix your hayfever, I'm sorry to say I don't have
it. But if you want a few tips on how to avoid the worst of the symptoms,
then try these...
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There are certain times of the day when pollen levels are at their highest.
If you can avoid being outdoors at these times you will be better off.
Generally the pollen counts peak at between 9 a.m. and 12 midday. Then they
lower until about 5 p.m. when they rise until about 7 p.m.
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Start
each day well with a good bath or shower to remove any pollen which may
have settled on your body during the night. Then eat a good breakfast including fresh fruit rich in
vitamin 'C'. A healthy breakfast will help the body's natural immune
system to fight the effects of hayfever.
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Similarly
at lunchtime, eat healthily. Plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Avoid
junk foods like chips and burgers. Take extra vitamins to help
supplement the food.
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Normally
in the afternoon, the air temperature is at its highest. The pollen is
high in the air, well above head height, so this is a good time to get
outside for some fresh air.
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In
the early evening, temperatures start to drop again, and so does the
pollen. When you get home from work or school, changing your clothes and
washing will help remove any pollen you've picked up during the day.
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By
around 8 p.m. most of the pollen will have settled on the ground, and
this is often the most comfortable time of the day for hayfever
sufferers. If you still feel a bit stuffy, try a face sauna. Fill a bowl
with hot water, put a towel over your head, then hold your face over the
the steam and breathe.
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