The days are lighter and flowers are staring to bloom, marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring – but what does this mean for those with hay fever?
Allergy NZ chief executive Mark Dixon joined Breakfast today to discuss why some Kiwis are hit harder by seasonal allergies.
“This time of the year it’s a bit warmer,” he said.
“With spring, we get the flower bursts, the plants and grasses flower at this time of year, flower releases the pollen into the environment, and with the wind… perfect for spreading pollen.”
Dixon said most of the pollen people are allergic to is “microscopic — you can’t see it”.
“That’s why, at this time of year, you’ll see those symptoms.”
Hay fever symptoms can vary, from “very light, a runny rose, itchy eyes” which can lead to blocked nasal passages, lack of sleep and an inability to focus on work and school.
“It’s like having a cold — as we know, we get over colds in about two to three weeks. If you’re suffering those symptoms longer, it’s worth checking up with your GP.”
Dixon said the World Health Organization (WHO) has classed hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, as the leading chronic illness in the world.
“Hay fever is by far the most common [allergy] — most of us will know a family member… who suffers from hay fever this time of year.”
But what can we do about?
“There’s no cure,” Dixon said. “It’s about avoiding the allergens you’re allergic to.
“The symptoms can be debilitating, to the point where people can’t leave their homes.”
He said that people may be able to limit exposure to allergens by staying inside on windy days with windows shut, avoiding drying clothes and sheets outside, as they can collect pollen, and taking anti-histamines.
He recommended those with hay fever consider getting tested to confirm what specific allergen causes them to react, to make it easier to avoid.
“If you know what you’re allergic to, you can avoid it.
“There are people in our community, GPs, who are across this. Get in to see them, find out what it is and avoid it.”
