Experts confirm that hay fever is worse than ever this year due to the population spending long periods of time indoors during lockdown. This has resulted in a lack of exposure to pollen, making individuals less immune than usual.[1]
If you’re one of the 13 million Brits currently suffering with hay fever, you know that treating the symptoms quickly and effectively is key to managing the condition.
Many opt for antihistamines – over the counter medicines that treat symptoms such as sneezing, red and itchy eyes, sore throat, and others. However, the side effects can make day to day life challenging. Drowsiness, dry mouth and blurred vision are just a few.
Other products commonly used to treat the symptoms of hay fever are over the counter nasal decongestant sprays. independent Pharmacist, Rita Ghelani explains that many contain synthetic ingredients that can actually be counter-productive and can often worsen symptoms:
“Many brands of nasal decongestant sprays contain an ingredient called xylometazoline, (or oxymetazoline) which works by causing the blood vessels in the lining of the nose and sinuses to contract and narrow. Initially, the ingredient appears to help reduce swelling, it reduces the production of mucus and the general feeling of congestion. However, products containing this ingredient should not be used continuously for more than seven days as they can cause rebound congestion. This is where symptoms reappear once their use is stopped.”
“Xlear Nasal Spray is a good alternative that can be used regularly without the risk of rebound congestion and aids in restoring the natural mucus production of the nose.”
Rita goes on to explain “Xlear Nasal Spray contains the active ingredient, Xylitol – which when transported by saline, helps to moisturise the nasal passages, by washing the nose of debris and allergens, as well as tackling the bacterial colonies that may be causing inflammation.”
“We know that inflammation in the sinuses is a leading cause of congestion. A recent study(1) demonstrates that a combination of xylitol and saline reduces sinus tissue volume and opens up the airway, helping people to breathe better and easier.”
Rita continues “I would recommend Xlear Nasal Spray to patients who are suffering from persistent nasal congestion due to allergies, have a sinus infection or as a preventative nasal spray.”
The nose is one of the main places where allergens enter your body and cause problems. It filters the air you breathe but as with any filter, you need to regularly clean it. Using Xlear Sinus Care Saline Nasal Spray (£11.99 for 45ml. Available from independent health stores and from Amazon) daily will make sure your airway is healthy and free of allergens.
Why Xlear Nasal Spray?
- Provides relief in as little as 10 minutes
- Natural – contains the natural active ingredient xylitol
- Can be used daily unlike OTC nasal decongestants
- No side effects like drowsiness
- Suitable for children
Other tips for helping seasonal allergies:
- Be aware of the pollen count: There are a few good websites and apps that can alert you when specific allergens are high in your area. Knowing when levels are higher will help you prepare.
- Close the windows: Even though it is warm and nice outside, make sure to keep your house as allergen-free as possible so you have a place to escape when needed. You could also invest in a household air purifier.
- Frequently shower: You will always come in contact with allergens—it’s inevitable. Getting the allergens off your body is key to making sure you don’t have a bad reaction. Shower morning and night and wash your hands and face throughout the day.
- Frequently wash bedding and linens: To ensure that you aren’t spending more time than absolutely necessary around allergens, make sure the places you spend the most time are fresh and clean. It is also a good idea to get mattress and pillow covers for allergies.
- Don’t use the car’s heating/air conditioningunless it is filtered: Many car heating and air conditioning units suck in air from the outside so it is good to find out if your car’s system filters the air or you are at risk of sucking in and circulating pollen and allergens.
- Try using a little dab of Vaseline or a nasal balm around the nostrils to help stop pollen and other allergens entering the nasal passage.
- Wear wraparound sunglasses to prevent pollen getting into the eyes
- Xlear Sinus Care Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol, 45ml – £11.99
- Kids Xlear Sinus Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol, 75oz – £6.99
- Xlear Sinus Rinse Kit – £10.
Xlear products are available from independent health stores and from Amazon. For more information, please visit https://www.xlear.com/