For some, the only symptoms of hay-fever are no more than a runny nose or itchy eyes. Those who are subjected to a pollen allergy await summer with mixed feelings. Hay fever affects not only the tissues of the nose, throat and eyes, it also affects the immune system, severely irritates the nose and causes great suffering. Reactions to the pollen of certain trees, especially oak and birch, and to grass pollen are certainly well known. But it is also possible for fungi to act as an allergen. In most cases de-sensitising is of prime importance, and once the correct diagnosis has been established hay fever patients can take action at the beginning of the season, usually around April by building up their immunity to the offensive factors.

Hay fever sufferers can do much to help themselves by modifying their diet and recognising which chemical additives or preservatives, trigger an allergic reaction. A high protein diet may also exacerbate the problem.


Dietary advice

Hay-fever sufferers should avoid alcohol, nicotine, chocolate, spices, coffee and tea. Try drinking a herbal tea or a honey and lemon drink. Ensure that your intake of vitamins, minerals and trace elements is adequate, remembering to eat foods high in the vitamin B complexes, manganese, chromium and iron. Plenty of garlic is also beneficial.


Remedies

Please remember that if you are taking any prescribed medication or have a medical problem,you should consult your own medical practitioner before starting any new course of treatment.

It is not appropriate to make specific recommendations via our website, please contact the clinic for an appointment or call our helpline.


Further complementary therapies available at Jan de Vries clinics:

Aromatherapy and Acupuncture.