THE washout summer is giving way to hay fever hell.
Weed season is set to peak over the next few days and their pollen is worse than that from trees or grass pollen because it grows everywhere, meaning there is no escape.
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Airborne allergens expert Max Wiseberg said: “If you are a hay fever sufferer watch out and be prepared, the first high counts of the weed pollen are here.”
With almost half the population suffering from the allergic condition, it’s set to cause misery for millions.
From smearing vaseline under your nose to eating carrots, here are ways to soothe your symptoms.
Make like Bugs Bunny: Carrots, pumpkins and sweet potatoes all contain carotenoids, a naturally occurring plant pigment.
It’s a powerful antioxidant, which is believed to aid inflamed airways and boost your immune system.
Aim for one or two servings of carotenoid-rich foods each day.
Spice up your life: Spices can help clear a blocked nose.
And turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties.
Boost your vitamin C: It can help with coughs and sneezes because it acts as an antihistamine and antioxidant.
Smear jelly up your nose: Now we don’t mean strawberry Hartley’s.
Experts say petroleum jelly can act as a barrier against pollen.
Dr Rob Hicks, author of Beat Your Allergies, says: “Apply it before leaving home and reapply throughout the day, especially after wiping or blowing the nose.”
Give booze a wide berth: Alcohol can cause blood vessels in the nasal passages to dilate, making congestion worse.
In addition, beer, red and white wine and fizz have some of the highest histamine levels of all booze.
If you fancy a tipple, stick to clear spirits like vodka and gin because they have the lowest levels.
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Channel your inner supermodel: Fashionistas like Bella Hadid and Kylie Jenner have been spotted rocking wrap-around sunglasses.
But not only are they on trend they are said to act as a shield against pollen and dust.
And for added protection, wear a wide-brimmed hat too.
Eat more garlic: Not only does garlic keep vampires at bay, the same could be said for hay fever.
It is a source of quercetin, a natural antihistamine.
But TV Dr Hilary Jones advises against following advice on a recent viral TikTok video which sees people putting garlic cloves up their nostrils.
On ITV’s Lorraine last year, he branded it “disgusting” and warned it could cause bleeding.
If you’re not a garlic breath fan, onions are also rich in quercetin.
Drink more tea: PG Tips won’t help your hay fever but herbal and green tea certainly will.
Try making a chamomile inhalation by brewing three chamomile tea bags in a large bowl. Let it steep for a few minutes.
Then, place a towel over your head and put it over the bowl.
Take deep breaths for five minutes, to let the steam to reach your lungs.
Shower before bed: Pollen can cling to hair the same way as strong scents.
So shower before you sleep and make sure you wash your locks for a sneeze-free night.
And for the same reason, try to wash your bedding frequently.
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