What causes hay fever and how to prevent it.

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a condition that causes the membranes lining the nose to become swollen.

It is caused by an allergy that can be triggered by a variety of things including mold spores, pollen or pet dander which could be in the environment, your home, car and or place of work.

Hay fever is a common condition that affects more than 20% of the population worldwide, so if you have it you aren't alone. The symptoms for hay fever can range from mild to severe depending on how sensitive you are to allergens.

Some people might experience hay fever symptoms, including:

• Sneezing
• Nose congestion or runny nose
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Red, swollen, or sore throat
• Coughing

Hay fever affects 1 in 5 people in Australia.

Despite its name, it’s not caused by hay and doesn’t cause a fever. Untreated hay fever may also increase the risk of developing asthma, or make asthma harder to control, so it’s especially important to treat your nasal symptoms if you have asthma. This is because asthma and hay fever are both associated with airway inflammation.

About 4 in every 5 people with asthma also have hay fever.

 Source: Health Direct

To prevent hay fever:

Hay fever can be prevented to some extent by cleaning your car regularly, we point out this fact "NOT" because we run a car detailing business and want you to book in with us.

We point out this fact because it's the truth... "not because we have nothing else to talk about."

Besides just cleaning your car, here's some real world tips that can help prevent hay fever:

Stay Away From Allergens: When hay fever season arrives, the best thing you can do for your health is stay indoors and not stop to smell the roses.

Use an Allergy Mask: If you have hay fever or suspect that you might have it, use an allergy mask when going outside or when spending time in crowded spaces like shopping malls or schools.

Check the Weather and Plan Ahead for Pollen Season: It is important to know when the pollen season starts. This way, you can be prepared for the worst and take necessary precautions. The pollen season in Australia typically starts from November to April.

A Clean Home is a Happy Home: It's none of our business what you do in the comforts of your own home but one tip is to keep the house clean and free of hair, dander, and dust mites (especially if you have a dog).

Groom Your Pets Frequently: Groom your pet frequently and brush your pet's hair often. Clean any pet bedding regularly and keep it in a closed bag when not in use to reduce exposure to allergens from other pets or people who visit you.

If you are having serious health issues you should seek medical help from a professional.