Spring is right around the corner – a delightful time of year in North Queensland, but not for those  who suffer from hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis. 

Hay fever tends to start in childhood or early adulthood, and affects 10% of children and 20% of teenagers and young adults.  It occurs when the body launches an allergic response against an inhaled substance such as pollen, cigarette smoke or animal fur.  During this allergic response, a chemical called histamine is released.  It causes swelling, itchiness and excess mucus in the nasal passages, resulting in a blocked and runny nose, sneezing and cough (due to fluid running down the throat).  The eyes may become puffy, itchy and watery.

People with hay fever sometimes develop headaches from blocked sinuses, and may feel fatigued due to not sleeping well, resulting in poor concentration.
Symptoms can differ from person to person, and can also be quite uncomfortable for the sufferer.  Some treatment options include;

AROMATHERAPY
Suggested essential oils can be used for the management of hay fever; ANISEED & LAVENDER.
Application – VAPORISATION; Add 5 drops (total) of one or a combination of essential oil/s to water in an oil burner.

ANTIHISTAMINES
Antihistamines work by preventing histamine release.  They come in a variety of combinations such as; Nasal sprays, eye drops and/or tablets.  They are an excellent choice for relieving sneezing & coughing.

CORTICOSTEROID NASAL SPRAYS
These are particularly good for treating severe nose blockages and excess mucus; they can also help with sneezing, itchy noses and/or eyes.  Regular usage is recommended to be most effective and our pharmacists will help you select the right products for you

COMPLEMETARY THERAPIES
Herbal medicines such as Fusion Health Allergy may reduce the symptoms of hay fever.  Also recommended are;
— Mario’s Phytolacca Herbal Sinus Cream
— Ethical Nutrients Eczema Shield
— Thompson’s Immunofort
— Garlic, Horseradish and Vitamin C
— Fish Oils

GOOD HYGIENE IS THE KEY
Blow your nose regularly, use steam inhalations and make use of nasal salt water sprays to help relieve nasal and sinus blockages.  Don’t keep using the same hanky, change them regular or use tissues.  Vicks is also good to rub underneath the nose, to clear nasal passages.

PREVENTING ALLERGIC CONDITIONS IN CHILDREN
Everyone recognizes that prevention is better than cure – so for children with a family history of allergies, follow these guidelines to minimize their risk of allergic disease.

• Do not smoke during pregnancy or around children
• Breastfeed exclusively for the first 4-6 months.  If this is not possible, use a hypo-allergenic cow’s milk formula
  i.e. Novolac
• Delay the introduction of solid foods until age 4-6 months
• Delay the introduction of egg, cow’s milk, peanuts and seafood until age 6 months (or preferably 12 months)
• Consider using a probiotic supplement such as Eczema Shield during late pregnancy and while breastfeeding

Visit a Calanna Pharmacy for all your Spring Needs!