Seasonal allergies, otherwise known as hay fever is something millions of people suffer from each year. The most common symptoms of hay fever are sneezing, coughing and nasal congestion. This can occur in adults and children alike and is caused primarily by pollen released by plants and trees during the spring and summer. These symptoms can make spending time outside very uncomfortable. While symptoms will continue for as long as the allergen is present, there are things you can do to relieve them quickly. So whether you or your child has allergy symptoms, here are some quick fixes to help you enjoy the summer to it’s fullest.
Don’t rub
Itchy eyes is another common symptom that seasonal allergy sufferers experience. This can make it very tempting to rub your eyes. But this will only cause further irritation which could prolong your symptoms and make them worse. So refrain from rubbing your eyes and encourage your children to do the same. A fast way of making your eyes feel less irritated and sore is by applying a cold compress. You can buy pre-made compresses that you keep in the fridge, or you can make one yourself using some ice and a small towel. You can take these with you during family days out or road trips by storing them in a cooler bag. Meaning you or your child can get cool relief no matter where you are.
Wear sunglasses
Wearing sunglasses during the summer can help protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays. But they can also bring you relief from your allergy symptoms too. If it’s windy outside, pollen can easily get blowing into your sensitive eye area. This can trigger your allergy symptoms almost instantly. Sunglasses can prevent this from happening. If your symptoms have already started, putting some sunglasses on means no more pollen can reach this area. Meaning your symptoms should disappear sooner. Buy a pair of sunglasses for each member of your family and wear them each time you go outside.
Use Steam
Inhaling steam is one of the most effective ways of relieving hay fever allergy symptoms. You can use your bathroom to create your own mini steam room, using your shower or a hot bath to help you. Let the water run hot and allow the room to fill with steam. Then grab a chair and spend some time inhaling the steam. Sitting in the bath also a great way of doing this. Just make sure that the water is not too hot for your child or you to use. An alternative to this method would be filling a bowl with boiling water from a kettle. Cover your head with a towel, put your face over the bowl and breathe in the steam. It shouldn’t take long for your allergy symptoms to cease.
Seasonal allergy symptoms can appear out of nowhere. But these techniques can provide some much-needed fast relief. If the symptoms continue, despite using these techniques, make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.