Don’t let hay fever ruin your summer

Countryside in summer, don’t let hay fever ruin your summer

For the more than 10 million people who suffer from hay fever, summer can be a miserable time.

If airborne pollen is causing you sore eyes, a constant runny nose and headaches, your local pharmacy can help you ease the symptoms with expert advice and a range of over-the-counter remedies, without the need to book an appointment.

Elaine Radcliffe, Prescribing Advisor for NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale said: “People who have never had hay fever can be dismissive of the affect it can have. For the majority of people who have hay fever, it is annoying, but for some it can mean feeling really poorly, with days off work and school. Research published last year showed that hay fever can affect performance in exams, while it has been known for many years that it can exacerbate asthma.

“If you think you may have hay fever, you don’t need a diagnosis from your GP. There are many different treatments available, and pharmacy staff can help you to find the best one for you. Antihistamines, for example, can prevent an allergic reaction happening in the first place, and there are a huge range of different antihistamines available. Talk to your local pharmacist about your symptoms and they will be able to advise you.”

Pharmacy staff are working with the local NHS to help people to use the right health service first time, as part of the Choose Well campaign. Health leaders believe more than 51 million people a year who visit their GP with common complaints could either care for themselves or visit their local high-street pharmacy for help.

You can download NHS information and advice on how to look after yourself if you have hay fever to your mobile phone – go to http://bit.ly/nhsnwQRhayfever