8 ways to prevent hay fever

Sniffing and sneezing? You're not alone-the UK has one of the highest rates of hay fever in the world. But help is at hand...

- DR PHILIPPA KAYE

For many people, this time of year brings joy and a sense of relief – those with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) may now feel their mood begin to lift. But, for others, spring is the start of hay fever season, bringing the misery of constant sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes and other symptoms.

Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen, and the symptoms are related to where the pollen enters the body. There are lots of different types of pollen, a fine powder from plants. Your hay fever season may differ depending on which type of pollen you are allergic to, although you could be allergic to more than one type.

Tree pollen is in the air from around now until June, so if you’re already suffering, it could be down to that. Grass pollen is the most common form (from about May to July), while weed pollen tends to occur later (June to September). But as the climate and the weather changes, you may notice that your season starts earlier or later each year.

Here’s what could help:

1 COVER UP

If you’ve been outside, change your clothes and shower to wash any pollen off your body. While you are out, pull your hair back and wear a hat (which also protects against the sun), and remove it when you get back in. If you haven’t worn a hat or can’t fit all your hair under one, wash your hair – otherwise, pollen can get trapped and be rubbed on to your pillow during sleep and breathed in!

2 TRY VASELINE

Smear a little around your nostrils – this can help to trap the pollen so you breathe less in.

3 INVEST IN MEDS