Hay fever sufferers across Northern Ireland are being warned to prepare as pollen counts are set to rise this coming week and weekend.
It comes as the Met Office forecasts bright sunshine for much of this week and coming weekend - with Wednesday set to be particularly warm and an average temperature of 23°C forecast along with high levels of pollen.
Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen said: “It is not particularly unusual to see warm and sunny periods in April where temperatures reach the mid-20s. This has occurred as recently as 2018 and 2019, for example.
“However, it is more unusual to see temperatures reach the high-20s, and if we see 30C this week, it will be the earliest point in the year in which we have achieved that threshold.”
According to first aid expert Sarah Jeffries, hay fever season is now upon us, with tree pollen levels expected to peak as warmer weather and spring blooms take hold. This is likely to trigger symptoms for millions of allergy sufferers across the country
Sarah Jeffries, First Aid Training Expert at Paediatric First Aid, explains: "While hay fever isn’t life threatening, it can severely impact daily life. Knowing how to manage symptoms and when to seek help can make all the difference."
Why does hay fever feel worse right now?
The main culprits for spring hay fever are tree pollens , particularly from birch, alder, hazel, and oak .
"Tree pollen tends to spike during warm, dry days with light winds," Sarah says. "Unfortunately, these are the same conditions many enjoy for outdoor activities."
Common hay fever symptoms include:
- Sneezing and runny nose
- Itchy eyes, throat, and ears
- Blocked sinuses
- Fatigue and headaches
How to protect yourself
While there’s no cure for hay fever, Sarah shares practical first aid tips to manage symptoms and reduce discomfort:
Create a Hay Fever First Aid Kit:
- Antihistamines: These block histamine, the chemical your body releases in response to pollen.
- Nasal sprays: Steroid or saline sprays can reduce inflammation and clear blocked nasal passages.
- Eye drops: Soothing eye drops can relieve itching and redness.
- Allergen barrier balm: Applying a small amount around your nostrils can trap pollen before it enters your airways.
Reduce Pollen Exposure:
- Stay indoors when the pollen count is highest, usually early morning and late evening.
- Keep windows closed at home and in the car.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen.
- Change clothes and shower after being outside to remove pollen from your skin and hair.
Know When to Seek Help:
While hay fever itself isn’t dangerous, symptoms can sometimes lead to complications like asthma flare-ups or sinus infections .
"If you experience wheezing, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the throat, seek medical attention immediately," Sarah advises.
Natural Remedies That Might Help
For those looking for non-medicated options, Sarah suggests:
- Quercetin: A natural antioxidant found in apples, onions, and berries, believed to limit histamine release.
- Butterbur: A herbal extract thought to have antihistamine-like effects.
- Vitamin C: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential to reduce allergic responses.
Stay Prepared and Informed
Sarah concludes: "Hay fever might be unavoidable, but with the right precautions and first aid know-how, you can keep symptoms under control and enjoy the outdoors safely."
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