The symptoms of hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, are comparable to those of the common cold. It results from an allergic reaction to chemicals in the air, like pollen. The substance or allergen that a person reacts to determines what time of year it occurs. Contrary to its name, hay fever is not an allergy to hay combined with a fever; fever is not a sign of hay allergies, and hay is rarely an allergen. Keep reading to find out how to spot hay fever and get the best severe hay fever treatment in Exeter.
How is hay fever diagnosed?
Following a physical examination and a medical history assessment, your pharmacist may suggest one or both of the below tests:
The skin-prick test
The skin-prick test involves injecting tiny amounts of an allergen into the skin of the affected person’s arm or upper back, then watching to see if they respond allergically. A rising lump (hive) will appear where the allergen is if you are allergic to it. The best people to handle these types of tests are allergy specialists.
The best people to handle these types of tests are allergy specialists.
An allergy blood test
A sample of blood is sent to a lab for an allergy blood test to ascertain how your immune system reacts to a certain substance. This examination, often referred to as a radioallergosorbent test (RAST), measures the levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which are the root cause of allergies, in your circulation.
How long can severe hay fever last?
Between March and September is often when cases of hay fever are at their highest, especially on hot, muggy days. At this time of year, the pollen count is at its highest.
Hay fever can continue for weeks or months, as opposed to a cold, which normally lasts one to two weeks.
Natural severe hay fever treatment in Exeter
The following hay fever treatments, which range from sipping herbal teas to setting up a regular cleaning schedule, should make you feel better and enable you to return to the outdoors.
Honey
Local honey is among the most delicious natural medicines available, despite the fact that the science behind its use in the cure of hay fever is in question. In order to make your body less susceptible to local pollen, it is advised that you have 2 tablespoons of locally made honey each day. Try and start this natural cure 3 months ahead of hay fever season to allow your body enough time to adjust.
Try essential oils
Steaming is a successful hay fever home treatment for clearing obstructed airways since hay fever allergies typically result in congested noses and blocked nasal passages. The use of essential oils in hot water is advised since they contain natural antihistamine effects, especially eucalyptus and lavender.
Cleaning your environment
Sometimes all that is needed to treat hay fever at home is a thorough cleaning. Even if it could be challenging to have your windows closed in the summer, you can contribute to lowering the quantity of pollen that penetrates your house by routinely washing surfaces and windowsills.
Herbal teas
You’ll be happy to learn that several herbal teas, like nettle tea, are efficient at-home treatments for hay fever if you prefer drinking them. Nettle tea includes anti-inflammatory antioxidants and antihistamines, just like chamomile and liquorice tea.
What is the strongest antihistamine for severe hay fever treatment in Exeter?
Fexofenadine
Antihistamine fexofenadine aids in the relief of allergy symptoms.
The following conditions are managed with the drug:
– Allergy (hay fever)
– Eczema
– Inflammation of the eyes (conjunctivitis)
– Urticaria
– Reactions to insect bites and stings
This antihistamine doesn’t cause drowsiness. It is less likely than other antihistamines to make you sleepy. Most fexofenadine products come in tablet form.
Usually, you need a prescription to get it. However, 120mg pills are available from pharmacies and the majority of supermarkets. 180mg tablets, available over the counter or without a prescription, can be used to treat hives. Only with a prescription are 30mg fexofenadine tablets for children obtainable.
What happens if antihistamines don’t work?
Start by attempting to minimise any concerns that might render your medication ineffective. These include taking the wrong prescription, starting your allergy medicine late, and skipping doses. Ask your pharmacist to regularly check your technique if you use a prescription nasal spray.
Can a pharmacist assist in severe hay fever treatment in Exeter?
If your hay fever is particularly severe, talk to your pharmacist. They can advise you on the best antihistamine drops, nasal sprays or tablets to use if you’re experiencing sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, or a stuffy nose.
Book your appointment or visit Luxtons Pharmacy today for severe hay fever treatment in Exeter.
This blog post was written on behalf of Luxtons Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.