Allergy relief, respiratory expert shares top tips - Institute for Respiratory Health

Allergy relief, respiratory expert shares top tips

If you’ve been sneezing non-stop over the past few days, you’re certainly not alone. Around 4.6 million Australians experience hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and that number keeps growing.

Symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose and itchy-watery eyes are common. Hay fever can be especially severe at this time of year due to reactions to tree, grass or weed pollen. People with lung conditions like asthma and COPD can find their symptoms worsening.“Hay fever can strike at any time of year but it tends to be more severe in Western Australia during winter and spring when pollen levels are high,” Professor Yuben Moodley from the Institute for Respiratory Health said. “For some, it’s mild but for others, it can be quite debilitating, affecting both work and social activities.”

Professor Moodley highlights the importance of using nasal sprays properly. “Steroid nasal sprays are the most effective treatment but many people don’t realise they need to start using them before the pollen season begins. It can take up to two weeks to notice any effects, so start now if hay fever bothers you,” he advises.

“And remember, if you can taste the spray, you’re doing it wrong. Asthma Australia has some excellent guidelines on how to use a nasal spray correctly.”

Antihistamine tablets are another option for reducing symptoms but Professor Moodley recommends beginning treatment up to four weeks before symptoms typically appear if you suffer from hay fever regularly. “Combining sprays and tablets can be effective but everyone needs to find out what works best for them and take these treatments daily,” he said.

Professor Moodley also reminds people with asthma to always have their reliever inhaler on hand and to use any prescribed preventer or maintenance treatments. “Reducing asthma attacks involves being consistent with your medication,” he said.

Climate change is another factor impacting hay fever sufferers, as many report their allergies worsening over the years. “With climate change, we’re seeing earlier springs and later winters,” Professor Moodley said. “This leads to hotter seasons with more pollen and longer, more intense pollination periods.”

To help manage hay fever during pollen season, Professor Moodley suggests:

  • Closing windows and staying indoors on high pollen days and wearing sunglasses when outside.
  • Using nasal sprays correctly, and continuing asthma and hay fever preventer medications to reduce the risk of flare-ups.
  • Being aware of high pollen days by using pollen monitoring apps or websites like Auspollen, though they may not cover all areas.
  • Working with your GP to develop a clear action plan and considering specialist treatments like immunotherapy if needed.

By following these tips and planning ahead, you can better manage your symptoms and enjoy the outdoors with less discomfort.

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