About 1 in 5 Australians suffer from hayfever. For anyone who has experienced seasonal allergies, you’ll understand the discomfort and inconvenience that comes with the symptoms. But what is it, how do you know it’s not a cold and what can you do to prevent it?
We take a look at some of the more obvious, as well as lesser-known ways you can manage seasonal hayfever.
How to manage hayfever symptoms
What is hayfever?
Hayfever is the common name for allergic rhinitis. It’s an allergic reaction to allergens in the air, triggering an immune response when the body mistakenly identifies these particles as harmful.
Symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, sinus pressure or facial pain, irritability, fatigue and even sleeplessness.
How do I know it’s hayfever and not a cold?
While both can cause a runny nose, a cold will usually leave you feeling congested and stuffy. Allergy symptoms tend to appear quickly and don’t usually include aches, pains or a fever. Allergies are also more common during warmer months when pollen levels are higher.
What can I do to help my hayfever?
Avoiding your triggers is the most effective approach, but that’s not always practical. Here are a few ways to manage symptoms:
- Stay ahead of the weather – Use a weather app that includes pollen counts to plan around high-risk days. Keep windows and doors closed during windy conditions.
- Try nasal irrigation – Using warm saline water can help clear your sinuses. A neti pot or saline spray can be effective. A hot shower can also help remove pollen and ease congestion.
- Seek out local honey – Consuming small amounts regularly may help reduce sensitivity to local pollens.
- Choose the beach over the pool – Chlorine can aggravate symptoms, while salt water may help soothe your sinuses.
- Support your body with nutrients – Certain foods may help support your immune response. See below for more details.
Fighting back with food
These nutrients may help support your health and reduce seasonal allergy symptoms. Consider incorporating them into your diet before and during peak allergy season:
- Bromelain – Found in pineapple, this enzyme has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce congestion.
- Vitamin A – Supports the health of mucous membranes. Found in foods like carrots and sweet potatoes.
- Vitamin C – Has natural antihistamine properties. Found in oranges, red capsicum, kiwi and strawberries.
- Omega-3 fatty acids – Help reduce inflammation. Found in foods like salmon and walnuts.
- Quercetin – A natural antihistamine found in foods like citrus fruits, onions, apples and broccoli.
Don’t go it alone
There are many natural and over-the-counter options available to help manage hayfever symptoms. Speak with your GP, pharmacist or health professional to find the right option for you.
Different treatments work for different types of allergies, and natural remedies may take time to show results. Focus on gradual improvements and make the most of the positives of the season, like warmer weather and longer days.
This article is intended to provide general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you have concerns about your health, consult your GP or a trusted health professional.
Sources: Asthma Australia, Blackmores, Cosmopolitan, Endeavour Clinic, Gaiam and Zyrtec.
