An Ammanford opticians is marking Allergy Awareness Week 2018 (23 - 29 April) by advising locals on how to manage their allergies during hay fever season and ahead of the summer holidays.

Specsavers in Ammanford is advising glasses and contact lens-wearers on the steps they can take to minimise symptoms caused by allergies, such as hay fever, as part of the annual initiative organised by charity Allergy UK, which this year focusses on how allergies affect people while travelling.

Hay fever, caused by pollen, is one of the most common forms of allergic rhinitis which is estimated to affect 15-20 per cent of the population in westernised countries such as the UK[1]. It tends to occur as an allergic reaction to grass, weed and tree pollen that spreads during spring and summer periods[2]. More than half of adults with the condition and 88 per cent of children[3] struggle to sleep due to symptoms, which include itchy, watering and red eyes.

Kevin McCarthy, store director of Specsavers in Ammanford, says: ‘Dealing with allergic symptoms can be incredibly frustrating for those affected, especially during a time where people want to be outside and enjoying the warmer climes. However, while sufferers may not be able to completely prevent their symptoms from developing, there are plenty of ways to limit their severity.

‘Keeping an eye on the weather is important as pollen forecasts can give an indication of whether levels will be high or not. Pollen counts tend to be higher on warm and dry days, so while you don’t want to wish for rainy weather on your travels, it’s best to keep outdoor activities to a minimum when the pollen count is high – which is usually over 50.

‘If you have to go outside, wrap-around glasses can protect your eyes from allergens, while showering and washing your clothes once you get back indoors can limit the longevity of symptoms.

‘Taking over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal sprays are also effective ways of managing symptoms, but if after taking these preventative steps you still experience discomfort, a GP can prescribe something stronger to help ease the symptoms.’

For further information or to book an eye test at your nearest Specsavers store, please visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores.