- Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is an immune response to pollen, causing symptoms like itchy eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose, and can exacerbate asthma.
- Experts advise being proactive by starting longer-acting antihistamines up to four weeks before hay fever season typically begins to prevent histamine build-up.
- Monitor pollen counts and take preventative medication on days with high levels to mitigate symptom severity.
- Stock up on over-the-counter remedies such as nasal sprays for congestion and anti-allergy eye drops for eye-related symptoms.
- Minimise pollen exposure by changing clothes and showering after being outdoors, keeping windows closed, and wearing wrap-around sunglasses.
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