Households urged to chew gum before bed in April | UK | News
Millions of people have been advised to chew gum before bed (Image: Getty)
Spring brings blooming flowers, longer days and milder temperatures, but for millions of people it also marks the start of hay fever season. With the start of the season, households are asked to start taking steps now to reduce pollen exposure and protect their sleep. Hay fever affects around 10 million people across all age groups in the UK.
That’s almost one in four adults and one in 10 children, and the number of people suffering from the condition is increasing every year, according to the Met Office. According to the NHS, hay fever symptoms usually peak between late March and September, especially on hot, humid or windy days when pollen counts increase. Dr Tim Mercer, NHS GP Partner and GP Trainer Opera Bedsshared her expert and lesser-known tips for combating hay fever during peak season.
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Doctor recommended chewing gum before going to bed (Image: Getty)
Dr Tim Mercer said: “Allergy season is back and for many that means disrupted sleep, itchy eyes and endless sneezing. So why do allergies hit so hard, especially at night?”
“The most common trigger of hay fever is grass pollen, but there are up to 30 different pollens that can be spread by wind and insects. “When we inhale allergens such as pollen or dust mites, our immune system overreacts and releases histamine.
“This triggers symptoms like congestion, sneezing, and watery eyes. Histamine levels naturally peak at night, making symptoms worse just as you’re trying to sleep. Pollen also clings to clothing, hair, and bedding, creating an invisible storm of irritation.”
Dr Mercer shared six tips to ease hay fever symptoms, and one of the more unusual suggestions was to chew gum before bed. As surprising as it may sound, the simple act of chewing can help clear the nasal passages, he said.
She explained: “Chewing gum before bed can help clear nasal passages and reduce congestion by encouraging saliva production and swallowing, which can help flush out allergens.”
Here are some tips from Dr Mercer to ease hay fever symptoms
Other recommendations include:
Make your home allergy-proof
Vacuuming regularly and washing bedding at high temperatures will help remove pollen and dust mites that may trigger symptoms.
Dr Mercer said: “For better sleep during allergy season, now is the time to start ‘allergy-proofing’ your home. A few simple changes, such as vacuuming more regularly and washing bedding at 60°C, can limit exposure to pollen and dust mites.”
shower before bed
Taking a shower before going to bed to wash the pollen from your hair and skin will prevent pollen from transferring to pillows and sheets, thus reducing nighttime irritation.
The expert said: “You can also take a shower before bed to prevent pollen from transferring to your pillow, and try to keep windows closed even when it’s hot, as open windows allow pollen directly in.”
Keep windows closed during the day and avoid going out during rush hours
Dr Mercer said closing windows on hot days prevents pollen from entering your home, while avoiding outdoor activities in the early evening, when pollen levels are generally highest, can help reduce hay fever symptoms and improve sleep.
acupuncture mats
The expert suggested that lying on an acupuncture mat can help reduce stress, improve circulation and relax the body, which can promote better sleep and potentially relieve mild tension or headaches due to allergies.
aromatherapy
Dr Mercer added that certain essential oils, such as peppermint or eucalyptus, can help open the nasal passages and improve breathing. He also suggested that diffusing these oils in your bedroom or adding a few drops to a warm bath may reduce congestion.
silk pillowcase
The GP said: “Silk pillowcases can help prevent the build-up of allergens such as dust mites, as they are less likely to attract and retain allergens than cotton. Opting for silk bedding has also been shown to have other benefits, such as hair protection and helping retain skin moisture.”
Replace your glass of wine with green tea in the evening
Dr Mercer said: “Green tea has natural antihistamines, while alcohol can worsen symptoms by increasing histamine levels.
“Green tea, especially the ‘Benifuuki’ variety, has natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve hay fever symptoms such as sneezing and watery eyes.”
