Guard against Easter egg hunt pollen, experts tell asthmatics

ASTHMATICS have been warned to think twice before taking part in Easter egg hunts this weekend for fear of fatal attacks triggered by pollen.

Experts have said around 4.3million sufferers are at particular risk because they are ignorant of the dangers of tree pollen and get caught up in the excitement of the day.

Symptoms associated with hay fever such as itchy eyes and a blocked nose can quickly lead to asthma, they warned. The campaign by Asthma UK also cautioned asthmatics to be careful eating Easter eggs.

It estimates that around 700 people a year are taken to hospital over the weekend holiday because they are both asthmatic and allergic to substances such as wheat, eggs, nuts or dairy products. Simnel cakes and hot cross buns are also believed to present a risk.

“Easter could be deadly for some people with asthma,” said Dr Andy Whittamore, clinical lead at Asthma UK. “Many people may not realise that trees begin releasing their pollen as early as January, so they may be caught out with hay fever symptoms over the Easter weekend.

“But if people take precautions, making sure they take their brown preventer inhaler and have their blue reliever inhaler with them, they can still enjoy Easter. We advise people with an allergy to ingredients in Easter eggs or hot cross buns to avoid the food completely, recognise the symptoms of a reaction and know what to do if it happens.” Around one in 12 people in the UK suffer from asthma.