10 allergy-busting tips

Carpets

It’s worth thinking about dispensing with carpets if you are allergic to house dust, pet dander or pollen.

All of these allergens can become into carpets and soft furnishings, and it’s easier to keep floors clean by sweeping and mopping than vacuuming.

Having said that, you should vacuum any soft covers on furniture frequently – or choose leather pieces next time.

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Windows

Close windows mid-morning and early evening.

This is when the pollen count tends to be at its highest, and because pollen is air-borne, you can help to keep much of it out of the house if you take this simple measure. 

You can also improve the air quality by purchasing an air purifying machine.

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Dusting

It sounds a bit labour-intensive, but dusting (preferably with a slightly damp cloth) and vacuuming daily will also decrease your exposure to allergens. You can find models that are specially made for people with dustmite, pet and pollen allergies.

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Nasal spray

Talk to your GP about using nasal spray: these are amongst the most effective treatments for allergies.

They take a couple of weeks of continuous use to build up efficacy and you must use them daily during the pollen season thereafter.

Follow the recommended dose for maximum effect.

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Antihistamine

Try an over-the-counter antihistamine. You’ll find there are quite a few available to buy, and it may be cheaper than a prescribed medicine if you’re eligible to pay for your prescriptions.

It make take a bit of trial and error before you find the right one for you.

Do follow the manufacturer’s instructions and don’t mix and match without the advice of your pharmacist.

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Sunglasses

Wear wrap-around sunglasses to protect your eyes from allergens.

It will help cut down on the amount of airborne particles that can drift into the eyes, causing itching and streaming.

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Pets

Keep your pets well groomed and bathed to keep them as free from dander (pet dandruff) as possible, as it’s the skin particles rather than the fur that people are usually allergic to.

Keep them off soft furnishings and out of bedrooms, too, if you can, to keep allergens to a minimum.

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DIY

Wear a protective mask and goggles when cutting the lawn or working on DIY projects.

This will cut down on the amount of grass pollen and dust you inhale or that reaches your eyes.

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Nostrils

A little petroleum jelly smeared inside the nostrils will reduce allergy symptoms as it will provide a barrier preventing pollen, dust and dander from getting into the nose.

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