Professor Katelaris says “It looks like it’s going to be a bad season for hay fever sufferers”.
Hay fever is an allergic inflammation of the nasal airways. It occurs when an allergen, such as pollen, dust or animal dander (particles of shed skin and hair) is inhaled by an individual with a sensitized immune system.
Plants produce large quantities of lightweight pollen which can be carried for great distances in the wind and are easily inhaled, bringing it into contact with the sensitive nasal passages.
Because pollen is much more prevalent in the mornings and late in the evening, try to keep from going outside during these times of the day. Do not line dry your clothes, towels or bedding because pollen can become trapped in the fabric.
Professor Connie Katelaris, senior clinical consultant immunologist and allergist at Westmead Hospital says “It looks like it’s going to be a bad spring and summer for hay fever sufferers. There will be significant pollen levels in the air because of recent rain”.
Antihistamines are effective at treating mild cases of hay fever as they lower hay fever symptoms. However, hay fever can lead to chronic health problems such as sinusitis and upper airway problems and make asthma harder to control, the ASCIA warned, and it is important to see your local GP.