About this time each year, do you notice that the sniffles and runny nose starts and your eyes become puffy and watery?  This may be occurring due to Hay Fever and/or an allergic reaction.

Hay fever tends to develop in children and/or early adulthood.  It occurs when the body launches an allergic response against an inhaled substance such as pollen, cigarette smoke or animal dander.  During this allergic response, a chemical called Histamine is released.  It causes swelling and itchiness, that can lead to a rash and excess mucus production resulting in a runny or blocked nose, sneezing and coughing.  Eyes can also become itchy, puffy and watery.
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

The pharmacy has a vast variety of the top selected antihistamines and come in; nasal sprays, eye drops and/or tablets.  This is an excellent choice, for relieving sneezing and coughing.  Ask our Pharmacists for more advice.

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
• Hemaview Analysis – Great tool to assist recovery

GOOD HYGIENE

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.