Pollen and Hay Fever

• Hay fever is a very common condition which affects an estimated 15 percent of the population. Sufferers usually develop hay fever in their childhood, and the symptoms get better, or go away completely, later in adult life. Hay fever is an allergy to pollen. During the summer months when pollen is airborne, pollen affects the nose, eyes, throat and sinuses of allergy sufferers.
  
  

Symptoms of Hay Fever

• When a hay fever sufferer inhales pollen, it causes their body to produce antibodies and release a substance called histamine. Histamine makes the nose, throat, eyes, and sinuses swell. This causes unpleasant effects such as itchy and runny eyes, sneezing, coughing and wheezing. You can also sometimes experience a burning sensation in your throat and itching in the roof of your mouth.
  
  

Curing Hay Fever

• The most common cure for hay fever is taking antihistamines, which stops the adverse effects of inhaling pollen. Antihistamines come in many forms. The most common are drowsy and non-drowsy pills, some that only need to be taken once a day. Hay fever sufferers can also ask their doctor to prescribe an antihistamine nasal spray which is a little stronger. General decongestants can help ease the symptoms too. It is also worth trying to stay inside on days when the pollen count is high. Consult your local weather station for the pollen count for that day.
  
  

Positive Effects of Bee Pollen

• Bees collect pollen and pack it into granules. Bee pollen is considered to have health benefits. In fact, eating pollen collected from local bees can help build up a tolerance to hay fever and ease symptoms. Bee pollen can also increase your energy levels, strengthen your immune system, and help you cope with stress. However, it can produce serious allergic reactions in some cases.