Natural tips for hay fever relief

2 mins to read

Are you one of the three million Australians who suffer from hay fever? Here are some great natural tips for relief

Cold, flu & immunityWellbeing news

What is hay fever?

Every year as winter turns to spring, many people rejoice at the promise of warmer days to come. Flowers show their coloured faces and warm breezes greet you as you step outside.

If you suffer from hay fever however, you may look upon this time with a little less fondness.

Hay fever is an acute inflammation of the nasal passages which usually occurs seasonally. It's often caused by pollens or other airborne allergens such as dust mites.

Hay fever signs and symptoms

Symptoms of hay fever, which generally occur soon after exposure to pollens, can include:

Runny nose
Nasal congestion
Sneezing
Itchy eyes, nose or roof of mouth
Cough
Sinus pressure and facial pain
Sleeplessness
Fatigue
Irritability

What triggers hay fever?

Why do some people suffer from hay fever while others don’t?

Those that suffer from hay fever have, at some point, had their immune system mistakenly identify a harmless airborne substance (like pollen) to be harmful. This is a process called sensitisation.

After sensitisation, when the body is exposed to an allergen, it produces chemicals such as histamine. These chemicals are produced to fight off the allergen, and cause cold and flu-like symptoms.

Does a runny nose always equal hay fever?

Hay fever can sometimes be confused with other conditions that can cause a runny nose, such as the common cold or flu virus.

The common cold develops five to seven days after being exposed to a cold virus, and symptoms can include a runny nose with watery or thick yellow discharge and fever.

Allergies, on the other hand, have no associated fever and generally occur soon after exposure to pollen.

If you believe you have allergies, it is best to see your healthcare provider to get allergy tests. This will help you to avoid allergens when possible.

For those allergic to dust mites, vacuuming and washing curtains, bedding, rugs, etc, in hot water will help kill off the little critters. If you are allergic to pollen, then you have a good excuse not to mow the lawn!

Natural relief for hay fever symptoms

Instead of simply avoiding pollen or dust – which is quite difficult! – here are some natural remedies you may like to consider:

Allergy Shield Nasal Spray

A non-drowsy nasal spray that starts to defend against hay fever and airborne allergies from 3 minutes.

The powder turns into a gel in the nose creating a barrier to shield and protect against hay fever and airborne allergies and reduces sneezing and a runny nose.

Blackmores Allergy Shield Nasal Spray

Horseradish Garlic + C

Contains horseradish and garlic which are traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to relieve nasal congestion. With vitamin C to support immune system health.

Blackmores Horseradish Garlic + C

Lifestyle factors that can help with hay fever

Be sure to eat a healthy whole food diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains. A good diet can ensure you are armed with all the vitamins and minerals which may be helpful in hay fever symptom relief. Include vitamin C foods like citrus, capsicum and broccoli and vitamin A foods like sweet potato and carrots. Vitamins C and A support immune system health
Reduce or cut out dairy foods. They are considered to be mucus producers and may increase the amount of mucus produced during hay fever bouts.
Minimise your exposure to pollens and moulds where possible
Avoid going outside on windy days, especially during spring when the pollen count is high

Always read the label. Follow directions for use. If symptoms persist talk to your health professional. Supplements may only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate.