Neuroscientist tells UK households ‘don’t dry sheets outdoors this week’
Laura Bojarskaite from the University of Oslo warned people with allergies not to dry their sheets outdoors during the heat wave (Image: SWNS)
A neuroscientist and sleep researcher has issued a warning to the 16 million Britons suffering from hay fever in the summer. The Met Office has predicted “very high” pollen counts in the West Midlands and southern parts of the UK as temperatures climb into the mid-30s this week.
Laura Bojarskaite from the University of Oslo warned people with allergies not to hang bed linens outside to dry during a heat wave.
“During periods when pollen counts are high, sheets, pillowcases and blankets left to dry outdoors can collect pollen grains,” he said. “Bringing these sheets to bed means you’re directly introducing allergens into the environment you spend seven to nine hours in every night, potentially prolonging exposure and worsening symptoms while you sleep.”
This has a detrimental effect on sleep quality. “Hay fever can significantly disrupt sleep, and poor sleep can make allergy symptoms even more difficult to cope with,” said Laura, whose research has been published in leading journals such as Nature Communications. “This creates a vicious cycle during allergy season.”
Symptoms of seasonal allergies, such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and irritated eyes, can make it much more difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. “Nasal congestion is particularly problematic because it reduces the amount of restorative sleep by increasing mouth breathing and sleep fragmentation,” Laura said.
A neuroscientist and sleep researcher has issued a warning to the 16 million Britons who suffer from hay fever in the summer (Image: SWNS)
“People with allergic rhinitis are more likely to experience daytime fatigue, impaired concentration and decreased cognitive performance,” says Laura, explaining that this is because their sleep is disrupted.
“Research consistently shows that allergic rhinitis is associated with poorer sleep quality, increased night wakings, and more daytime sleepiness.”
He said that sheets, pillowcases and blankets left to dry outdoors during periods when pollen counts are high can collect pollen grains. (Image: SWNS)
Met Office forecasts show pollen levels are rising and temperatures are rising in many parts of the country for much of the week. While some may see this as a chance to finally deal with the piles of laundry, for most it’s far from the smartest choice.
“This doesn’t mean everyone should avoid drying laundry outside all summer long, but on days when pollen is high – or if your symptoms are severe – drying bedding indoors or using a tumble dryer is a sensible precaution,” Laura said. “The goal is to reduce the amount of pollen reaching your bedroom while keeping your airways as open as possible.”
Reduce hay fever symptoms at night
“Your bedroom should be a healing environment, not an extension of the outdoors,” Laura said. “Reducing allergens in the bedroom during pollen season can make a significant difference in both your allergy symptoms and your sleep quality.”
Temperatures are rising once again (Image: SWNS)
One very important factor to keep in mind is that many people try to compensate for poor sleep by spending more time in bed, Laura said: “Unfortunately, if you are awake due to congestion or discomfort, lying in bed longer rarely improves sleep quality. Treating the allergy itself is often the most effective way to improve sleep.”
