Lifestyle advice
Allergy sufferers need to identify their allergen if possible, so it can be avoided. They should also take measures to reduce allergens in the home[3]:
- Vacuum and dust regularly - Carpets make a good home for pollen, pet dander and house dust mites, so it is important to vacuum regularly using a special high filtration cleaner. Changing to wooden or hard vinyl flooring could also help.
- Check pollen counts - Stay inside as much as possible when the pollen count is high. Sufferers should try to avoid being outside at peak pollen times (early evening and late morning).
- Go unperfumed - Use non-biological washing powder and unperfumed products as both these can cause allergic reactions, particularly to the skin (dermatitis).
- Avoid strong chemicals - Often found in household cleaning products, these tend to aggravate sensitive individuals.
- Use anti-allergy bedding - Particularly an anti-allergy mattress cover and pillow.
- Wipe surfaces - Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth as the allergens can be picked up efficiently whereas dusting with a dry cloth will spread allergens into the air and further around the home.
- Be careful with pets - Keep them outside as much as possible or limit their entry to just one room
- Make the environment hostile to house dust mites - Turn central heating down, open windows and avoid drying clothes inside. House dust mites like damp and warm conditions so keep the house well ventilated.
- Limit mould - Cover the soil of houseplants with pea shingle to help prevent mould settling, ensure there is proper ventilation in bathrooms.
- Clean soft toys - Soft toys are a popular breeding ground for house dust mites so they should be killed regularly by putting the toys in the freezer and washing in high temperatures the next day.
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What advice would you give to a hayfever sufferer?