Hayfever season is upon us and for sufferers it can be a debilitating conditions as the warmer months arrive.
Throughout March and until September many are gripped with symptoms including sneezing, coughing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy or watery eyes, itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears, headache, earache and fatigue.
But now an important warning has been issued to drivers who suffer from the condition as it can make driving hazardous and impair senses.
A sneezing fit can be dangerous on the road and hay fever drugs can also be risky. Motorists should be careful choosing over the counter remedies as some hay fever medicines can make you very sleepy so you should be careful to choose non-drowsy versions.
Tom Treacy pharmacist said: “Many motorists don’t realise the effect that prescription or over-the-counter medication can have on their driving.
“Most medicine packaging doesn’t stress enough how driving may be impaired, so it is every motorist’s duty to check before they start taking medication that it is safe and, if it isn’t, there are often alternative medicines which won’t impair driving. With a lack of awareness around drugs and driving, motorists should talk to their doctor or pharmacist about the effect of their medication.”
Top tips for drivers with hayfever include:
- Keep windows closed whilst driving, as pollution exacerbates hay fever – pollen grains become attached to particles from car exhausts, increasing their allergy-inducing effect.
- Avoid going outdoors in early evening when the pollen counts are usually highest.
- Wear wrap-around sunglasses, or glasses, when outdoors or behind the wheel.
- Check your car’s ventilation system to ensure a clean air flow.
- Ensure the air-con is checked annually, to help keep dust, moisture and pollen to a minimum.
- Vacuum your car regularly and clean surfaces with a damp cloth.
- Non-sedative anti-histamine tablets and nasal steroid sprays can be taken regularly, starting at least two weeks before the hay fever season starts.
- Ensure any medication you take is non-drowsy before you drive.
- Don’t allow pets to travel in the car as exposure to allergens, such as animal hairs and house dust mites, can exacerbate hay fever.
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