SOME COMMON SIGNS OF HAY FEVER INCLUDE SNEEZING, CONGESTION AND ITCHY EYES - BUT THERE ARE ALSO CERTAIN SYMPTOMS THAT ARE NOT SO WELL KNOWN 20:07, 13 Mar 2024 As we head into spring, the

warmer months could bring misery for people who suffer from hay fever. According to the NHS, hay fever is usually worse between late March and September, especially when it's warm,

humid and windy. This is when the pollen count is at its highest. Hay fever often leaves people sneezing, with congestion and itchy eyes. But beyond these common symptoms lie lesser-known

manifestations that can disrupt your daily life during allergy season, reports LeicestershireLive. Experts at Universal Drugstore have provided some tips on how to spot lesser-known

symptoms can be crucial for managing hay fever effectively. Even if you are already taking antihistamines, consult with a healthcare professional if you experience symptoms that are severe

or persistent. They can ensure that all of the appropriate management strategies are implemented to make your day-to-day life easier." 10 LESSER-KNOWN SYMPTOMS OF HAY FEVER AND WHAT YOU

CAN DO ABOUT THEM EAR PRESSURE Feel like your ears are blocked? Hay fever can cause a sensation of pressure or fullness in the ears, similar to mild ear congestion. Combat this symptom by

using saline nasal sprays to keep nasal passages clear. You can also practice the Valsalva manoeuvre to relieve pressure; close your mouth and pinch your nose closed while breathing out as

if blowing up a balloon. SORE THROAT Postnasal drip, a common hay fever complication, can lead to a persistent sore throat. Gargling with warm salt water and sucking on throat lozenges can

help to soothe your throat, and it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. FATIGUE Often overlooked, hay fever can trigger fatigue due to constant inflammation and

disrupted sleep patterns. To manage fatigue, prioritise rest, try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, and consider over-the-counter antihistamines to ease your symptoms. CHANGES IN

TASTE AND SMELL Is food tasting strange lately? Nasal congestion from hay fever can dull the senses of taste and smell. You may want to incorporate spicy foods into your diet or keep minty

products like chewing gum on hand to stimulate your taste buds. Nasal irrigation with saline solution can also help to clear nasal passages and restore your sense of smell. BRAIN FOG Due to

chronic inflammation, hay fever sufferers may experience cognitive impairment such as difficulty concentrating or memory problems. Combat this brain fog by maintaining a good sleep routine

and try practising mindfulness techniques. FACIAL PRESSURE Facial pressure around the sinuses and cheeks can result from hay fever-induced sinus congestion. Apply warm compresses to the

affected areas to soothe discomfort and consider using nasal decongestants under medical guidance. TOOTHACHE If you’re feeling like you may need a trip to the dentist, tooth pain could be

down to the sinus inflammation associated with hay fever. Consult both a dentist and a doctor to differentiate between dental and sinus-related pain, and they can guide you through the best

course of treatment. MOOD SWINGS Experiencing mood swings? Chronic inflammation and disrupted sleep patterns associated with hay fever can contribute to irritability. Communicate with

friends and family who may not be aware of how hay fever is affecting your daily life, so you can get their support and avoid unnecessary arguments. IRRITATED SKIN Some hay fever sufferers

may experience different types of skin irritation, such as itching or hives, as a result of allergic reactions. Avoiding known allergens, switching to hypoallergenic skincare products, and

taking antihistamines can help lessen these skin symptoms. POPPING IN THE EARS Hay fever can lead to dysfunction of the Eustachian tubes, causing sensations of popping or clicking in the

ears and even temporary hearing loss. To manage this, practice jaw exercises and consider using over-the-counter decongestants. Article continues below JOIN OUR WHATSAPP COMMUNITIES

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