Hay fever sufferers “fear” the summer – with symptoms that are often confused with Covid

A study of 1,500 allergy sufferers found that itchy eyes, runny noses and constant sneezing make the season less than comfortable for 48 percent

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Here are some top tips for managing hay fever

Almost half of UK hay fever sufferers are “dreading” the summer months as many are forced to cancel their plans due to their past symptoms.

A study of 1,500 allergy sufferers found that itchy eyes, runny noses and constant sneezing make the season less than comfortable for 48 percent.

More than a quarter (27 percent) have been forced to take time off work because their hay fever the symptoms were so bad.

And 44 percent “fear” social contact because of the impact symptoms are having on their appearance.

It comes after warnings from the met office that due to the mild winter we had and the early start of spring this year, an early pollen release is likely.

Stephan Lang, split and sky air specialist at the manufacturer of air purifiers Daikin UK said: “Most of us are looking forward to summer for obvious reasons, but for some it can be a really tough time.

“It can be difficult to understand how debilitating hay fever can be when you’ve never suffered from it.

“Clean, fresh air in the home is certainly a priority for hay fever sufferers, especially when it’s warmer weather comes and the temptation to open windows comes into play.”

And 43 percent were even accused of it Covid-19 due to their sputtering.

But while it’s not quite the same as having someone to talk to, it turns out our pets can also suffer from pollen allergies.

Almost a fifth (18 percent) of hay fever sufferers have noticed similar symptoms in their dogs, and many have sought treatments for them, such as oral medications (41 percent) and ear drops (40 percent).

29 percent of respondents polled by OnePoll have kept windows and doors tightly shut when it comes to managing their own symptoms — even in the height of summer.

A quarter got undressed and jumped straight into the shower at home to wash off pollen, while 15 percent bought an air purifier.

More than a quarter (27 percent) have spent the whole day in bed with high pollen levels, while one in five has trouble looking after their children.

A fifth (21 percent) even had to cancel a stay, while 51 percent say their hay fever affects their sleep.

Stephan Lang added: “There are many things people do to reduce their hay fever symptoms so that they don’t have to go without it during the warmer months.

“And almost half say they will still get outside no matter how down they are feeling because they want to enjoy the warmer weather.

“That’s why it’s so important to have a clean, healthy home to return to.

“By removing allergens from the air, our compact air purifiers – which feature a special pollen mode – can help make summertime more comfortable for people with hay fever and give them better control over the environment they find themselves in. “