This spring, people in the Black Country are being reminded to visit their local pharmacy for advice and treatment for hay fever.
Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen which can make the nose, eyes and throat become irritated and inflamed. It is usually worse in spring and summer when pollen levels increase, especially when it's warm, humid and windy.
Whilst severity of symptoms varies from person to person, people with hay fever will usually experience the following:
• Sneezing and coughing
• A runny or blocked nose
• Itchy, red or watery eyes
• Itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears
• Loss of smell
• Pain around your temples and forehead
• Headache
• Earache
• Feeling tired.
Hay fever can last for weeks or months, unlike a cold, which usually goes away after one or two weeks.
Stephen Noble, local pharmacist and Chief Officer of the Dudley Local Pharmaceutical Committee, said: “Spring may bring warmer weather and lighter evenings, however the change in weather also brings an increase in pollen. Those who don’t suffer with hay fever may sometimes think it’s just itchy eyes and a bit of a runny nose, however for many people it can make everyday life miserable and daily activities can become a real struggle.
“Unfortunately, there isn’t a cure for hay fever, however there are lots of medicines and remedies available from your local pharmacy to make life more comfortable.
“The common treatments for hay fever include antihistamines, eye drops and nasal sprays, all of which can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. Your local pharmacist can help you choose the best medicine for your symptoms.
“There are also steps you can take at home to help alleviate symptoms, such as wearing wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes when outside, using a balm such as Vaseline around your nostrils to stop pollen from getting into your nose, and having a shower when you in get in from outside to remove any pollen from your body and hair. It’s also a good idea to keep windows and doors shut as much as possible and vacuum regularly.”
To find your nearest pharmacy and check opening times, visit the NHS website here.
Patients registered with GP practices in the Black Country can also make use of the Pharmacy First service. This service provides people who are exempt from prescription charges with free over-the-counter medicines, so they do not need to see a GP to receive the medication on prescription.
Click here more information on Pharmacy First and to find participating pharmacies.
