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This seasonal allergic reaction, although never life-threatening, causes a
great deal of suffering, particularly in youngsters. It is caused by exposure to
pollen grains and symptoms mainly affect the nose and eyes. The nose is runny,
stuffy and itchy with sneezing, while the eyes itch, are puffy and can also
stream with tears. Symptoms can develop as early as March and continue through
to August, often affecting students during their examinations.
Reducing exposure to pollen is the first line of prevention. Stay indoors on
days with high pollen counts. Contact lenses and wrap-around spectacles will
keep pollen grains away from the conjunctiva. A surgical mask will keep them out
of the nose. Anti-histamines are the main drugs used to treat symptoms and can be
bought over the counter in pharmacies. Modern anti-histamines cause less
drowsiness than older ones, but you are still advised to avoid activities where
drowsiness would cause serious complications. Sodium cromoglycate in tablets or
drops can also be useful and steroid sprays can improve nasal symptoms. If
symptoms are really disabling, or vital examinations are coming up, it may be
appropriate to take steroid tablets or a one-off injection of long-acting
steroid.
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