Hay fever start Helpful tips for allergy sufferers

In the spring, the pollen fly again
With the onset of spring, the dreaded pollen count by allergy sufferers also starts. For many hay fever sufferers, this means a very unpleasant time with symptoms such as constant sneezing, itchy nose and watery eyes. Those who suffer primarily from birch pollen should therefore now take note of some important points to relieve the symptoms.

Birch pollen allergy sufferers are currently particularly affected
As soon as spring has begun, the time of suffering for allergy sufferers starts again due to the pollen flight. For sufferers of pollen allergy and hay fever this means in addition to a constantly clogged or running nose and sneezing attacks itchy eyes, chronic fatigue and sleep disorders. Especially those who are particularly sensitive to birch pollen, according to the German Allergy and Asthma Association (DAAB) should be prepared for the next three weeks on the unpleasant effects of allergy. But there are some tips and home remedies for hay fever that can help in the pollen season.

Hay fever complaints can be alleviated with simple home remedies. (Image: Sandor Jackal / fotolia.com)

Antiallergics weaken histamine activity
Anyone who already knows that they are allergic to birch pollen should already start taking antihistamines, explains Sonja Lämmel of the German Allergy and Asthma Association (DAAB) in an interview with the news agency "dpa". These allergy agents ("antiallergics") are substances that reduce the effect of the body's own messenger histamine. Because this plays a central role in allergic reactions, as well as e.g. in case of inflammation or sensations like nausea. "Then the complaints are not so strong and not so sudden," said the expert. Even if the first birch pollen are already in the air, the symptoms could be alleviated by these means. However, decongestant nasal sprays, which are often used for colds and stuffy noses, have no effect on allergies, according to the Federal Association of German Pharmacists Associations.

Special sunglasses provide protection for sensitive eyes
Washed clothes should not be hung in the fresh air, as the pollen stick to the damp textiles and can therefore be a real pain after dressing. It is therefore more suitable for an allergy dryer or a clothesline in the basement. According to Lämmel, the worn clothes should be pulled out of the bedroom in the evening, because that way the pollen stays outside and the affected person can sleep more peacefully. In addition, it is recommended that pollen allergy sufferers wash their hair before going to sleep, so that no pollen stuck at night can cause allergic reactions.

From outdoor sports activities, according to the expert, during the hay fever period is rather discouraged. Because the movement stimulates the circulation, which is even more responsive to the pollen load. Likewise, no alcohol should be drunk for hay fever and pollen allergy, as drinks such as beer and wine contain the active ingredient histamine and thereby increase or even trigger the typical allergy symptoms.

Manuka honey for hay fever complaints
For eye problems and sensitive conjunctiva, the expert recommends a dark sunglasses with side protection, because this protects and keeps the pollen away from the eyes. Among the proven home remedies for hay fever include nasal douches with a saline solution. The intake of one to three teaspoons of Manuka honey is also well suited for a pollen allergy. However, it should be ensured that the honey is slowly melted in the mouth, so that it can be well absorbed by the mucous membranes and unfold its full effect. In addition, the alternative medicine for hay fever recommends, among other things aloe vera juice or black cumin oil, for itchy eyes can, for example, also bring a compress with eyebright soothing relief. (No)