A Guide to Hayfever

Hayfever might be something you find ruining your picnic and making you feel grotty, but what is it, and why does it happen?

Hayfever (also referred to as seasonal allergies or allergic rhinitis) is the allergy to pollen, affecting 10-30% of people during the warmer months. Some of the symptoms include:

• Runny/Blocked Nose
• Itchy/swollen eyes
• Loss of smell
• Headache/Earache
• Itchy mouth/nose/ears
• Fatigue

If you have asthma you may also experience wheezing or tightness of the chest.

What is the cause?

Now you may have identified your symptoms, you may be wondering what causes them and the answer is pollen. Pollen can be found in plants and can cause hayfever when your body perceives it to be harmful.

Is it dangerous?

Hay Fever is not dangerous (although it is annoying), however, you may be confusing symptoms or be having severe reactions. It is advised you should see a doctor if:

• Your symptoms get worse
• Medicine does not improve your symptoms
• Medicine gives you an allergic reaction
• You have a mouth/throat condition/infection

How do I stop it?

You cannot prevent yourself from getting hayfever, however, you can lower the reaction by minimising the amount of time you spend outside or by taking anti-allergy medicines. Before taking these you must ask your parents to ensure you have hayfever and you are taking suitable medication.

Although it can be tiresome, it is usually harmless and can be treated easily, so you can go back to relaxing amongst the flowers and basking in the sun’s warmth.

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