Spring has well and truly sprung, bringing with it beautiful sunny days, blooming gardens and the excitement of knowing that Summer is just around the corner. While most people look forward to the sunny Spring months, many of us dread it – hay fever, seasonal allergies and asthma are all in full swing at this time of year so let’s take a look at the most common Spring health issues and the best the ways to prevent them so we can enjoy what should be the best time of the year.
Hay Fever
Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollens and grasses which cause the lining of the nose to become inflamed. Runny nose, puffy and itchy eyes, sneezing, watery eyes and congestion – all very unpleasant symptoms of hay fever. There’s an endless amount of medications available from pills to nasal sprays but there are a few other small things you can do to help manage your hay fever this Spring:
- Use Vasoline on the inside of your nostrils when going outdoors to prevent pollen entering your nasal passage
- Always wear sunglasses when outside and splash your eyes with water on a regular basis
- Stay away from parks and gardens when lawns are being mowed
- If symptoms are really bad, wear a mask when outside
Asthma
Asthma has a tendency to flare up in the Spring months. Pollen, dust mites, insect repellents and air temperature changes are just some of the things that can trigger an asthma attack. It’s not practical to lock yourself indoors so what are some of the things you can do to help keep your asthma in check?
- Avoid the outdoors when pollen levels are at their highest, this is usually between 5am and 10am
- After being outdoors, shower and/or wash your clothes as pollen can stick to skin and clothing
- Use a clothes dryer instead of an outdoor clothesline to keep your sheets and clothes away from pollen and irritants
- Opt for air conditioning instead of open windows to cool your car or home
- Use asthma medication and antihistamines before exercising outdoors
If you notice your symptoms are worsening or if you have trouble controlling your asthma make sure you seek advice from a medical expert immediately.
Allergies
Flowers, bushes and budding trees all look beautiful but they start releasing pollen into the air as soon as Spring arrives, this triggers seasonal allergies causing watery and itchy eyes, sneezing and even rashes and itchy skin. There are a huge variety of medications that can help but it’s best contact your doctor or local pharmacy to see which one will work best for you. Things to remember:
- Allery medications work best before the pollen or allergen enters your system so it’s recommended starting two weeks before spring weather starts
- Use an air purifier to help control your allergies inside your home
- Wash your hands regularly and avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent small particles that may worsen the irritation
Specialising in aged care medication and offering a convenient home delivery service, Sable Pharmacy is your trusted local chemist with the largest range of pharmacy supplies, medications, vitamins and supplements to keep your family healthy all year round. Visit one of our three convenient locations or contact our friendly staff for expert advice on any health concerns you have this Spring.