Getting a handle on hay fever

THERE’S one major downside to hot summer weekends – hay fever.

If you suffer from a pollen allergy you were probably scratching your eyes and reaching for the antihistamines this weekend, while cursing your luck as others enjoyed the parks and hills without a problem.

The reason it was so bad for hay fever sufferers this week was due to the “very high” grass pollen count throughout the country, including in the North East.

Usually, the North East has lower pollen levels than other parts of the country, with the count only reaching low to moderate levels.

And, according to the Met Office, we can expect a “very high” forecast until at least late on Thursday. That is the highest pollen warning the forecaster issues.

On Friday, it is predicted to fall to “high” which is the second most severe level of the Met Office’s hay fever warning system.

Have you got hay fever? Here’s the Met Office’s advice how to protect yourself: ■■Close your windows at night. It may

be annoying when it’s hot outside and your home turns into a greenhouse, but most pollen falls to the ground in the evening when the air cools down, so close your window to keep it at bay. ■■Wear sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes, to stop them feeling itchy. If you’re gardening, it may also be advisable to wear a mask. ■■Don’t dry your clothes outside when the pollen count is high. If you do, shake them thoroughly before taking them back into your home. ■■Keep windows shut while driving. ■■Vacuum your house regularly, and wash pets who can bring pollen in on their fur. ■■Avoid tobacco smoke as it can irritate your nose, eyes, throat and airways, which makes your symptoms worse. ■■Shower and wash your hair after going outside. ■■Consider medication. Treatments include antihistamine tablets or nasal sprays, corticosteroid nasal sprays and drops, nasal decongestants, eye drops, and immunotherapy.