057
28 May 2010
For immediate release
Summer can spell misery for anyone with hay fever, but sufferers could find relief is available just by visiting their local pharmacist.
The NHS in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland is keen to encourage more people to speak to their pharmacist about hay fever, as they can offer expert knowledge and provide advice on a variety of over-the-counter medicines.
Kim Dunn, head of pharmacy and service development at NHS Leicestershire County and Rutland, said: “With the pollen season lasting from March to October it can seem that there is little respite for hay fever sufferers – with runny eyes, sleepless nights, bunged up noses and headaches all common side effects.
“Symptoms are worse on hot, sunny days. Pollen is released in the morning and, as the air warms up, it gets carried up into the air, coming back down in the evening as the air cools.
“Many hay fever sufferers can really struggle when pollen levels are high, but your local pharmacist could help you to find something which will alleviate your symptoms and make it easier to cope.”
Over-the-counter remedies include:

Antihistamines which block the action of the chemical histamine, which is released after the body is exposed to pollen and causes sneezes and itchy, watery eyes

Steroid nasal sprays which are effective at treating blocked noses caused by hay fever, but can take several days to act and need to be taken continually for several weeks as their effect builds up over time.
To reduce exposure to pollen, sufferers are also advised to:

Keep windows closed at night to stop pollen getting in

Wear wrap-around sunglasses to protect your eyes

Smear petroleum jelly around the inside of your nose to trap pollen and stop it being inhaled

Wash your hair, hands and face after being outside and change your clothes.

Try not to dry your clothes outdoors

Keep car windows shut when driving

Avoid mowing the grass or working in the garden and stay away from large grassy areas
ENDS

This press release was issued by Caroline Curd at NHS Leicestershire County and
Rutland. For more information, contact the communications office on 0116 295 7663.
Notes to editors:
NHS Leicestershire County and Rutland is the operating name for Leicestershire County and Rutland Primary Care Trust (PCT).