It’s the season to be sneezy (and safe)
Although Spring has been 3 weeks late this year it has still brought with it an abundance of colour and bright sunny weather that lifts the spirits. As a result we also see a change at the surgery. Chest disease, flu-like illnesses and depressive symptoms reduce but heart disease diagnosis rates increase as people stop driving and start walking. However, Hay Fever is the most noticeable. It is also the most frustrating of conditions; those who suffer badly are sadly limited in their exposure to the bright sunny weather. Decreasing the amount of time spent outside, avoiding cutting the grass, wearing wrap around sunglasses, showering and changing clothes regularly to remove pollen and keeping doors and windows shut are all good lifestyle options to reduce the symptoms. Antihistamines work well as excessive histamine release is the problem. Nasal steroid sprays will not immediately relieve the symptoms and so need to be taken every day throughout the season as a preventative measure. Eye drops are the third useful agent. One good thing is that Hay Fever recedes with age as habituation to the pollen occurs and the immune system dampens its response over time. This is also the reason why I will always see one or two families each year who have just moved to Devon; new area, new pollens, new symptoms. There is limited evidence that taking pollen granules (bought over the counter from health food shops) has an effect but the theory would fit with habituation. There is nothing to be lost for serious sufferers in giving it a try; although it will not work immediately, next year might be better.
Those suffering Hay Fever are unlucky but know their symptoms will only last while pollen levels are high. However, other medical presentations at this time of year are often self-inflicted. Enthusiastic gardeners need to be safe and sensible. The hazards of lawnmowers, ladders and hedge cutters may seem obvious but gardening injuries top the A&E charts in Spring. Those trying out the strimmer they received for Christmas need to beware of Hogweed as this can cause a horrible, extremely painful, burning rash. Full protective clothing and goggles are needed before going near it. So take the antihistamines, be careful with the shears and don’t forget the suncream.
Anthony O’Brien
Wyndham House Surgery