SCOTS hay fever sufferers putting health at risk

Hay fever sufferers across Scotland are putting their health at risk by taking inappropriate medicines for their condition, according to a survey. The Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB) is encouraging the 21 per cent of the Scottish population who suffer to visit their community pharmacist after new research revealed that the public often misdiagnose their own symptoms and fail to get the correct treatment.

Allergic rhinitis, known as hay fever, is a condition which is caused by the pollen of specific seasonal plants, airborne chemicals and dust particles. It is commonly characterised by sneezing, runny nose and itching eyes.

A survey, commissioned by the RPSGB, found that a staggering 73 per cent of people in the UK who experience these symptoms fail to seek medical advice before selecting a treatment.

Moreover, the research reveals the damaging effects on the sufferers’ quality of life. The research finds that almost 40 per cent of hay fever sufferers become irritable, and a third have difficultly sleeping. Worryingly, 29 per cent have difficultly concentrating and 14 per cent said their symptoms affected their ability to read – findings which could have significant implications for school children and students, particularly as the hay fever season clashes with exam time.

More than one in 10 said they are embarrassed about their appearance and avoid socialising, while one in 20 hay fever sufferers say they avoid leaving the home because of the condition.

Lyndon Braddick, RPSGB Director for Scotland, says: “The survey results clearly demonstrate the impacts a condition like hay fever can have on peoples’ lives, with millions suffering unnecessarily. Pharmacists are highly trained health professionals and experts in medicines – they can play a significant role in the management of allergies including hay fever.

“The numbers of people failing to seek advice about their symptoms is surprising. There is a large choice of anti-allergy products available and pharmacists are well placed to advise on what is best for individual conditions. Pharmacists can help people recognise symptoms, identify allergy triggers and select appropriate products. Pharmacists can also suggest life style changes that may bring relief from hay fever and advise patients about potentially dangerous side effects with other medicines they may be taking.

“Pharmacies are situated in the places where people live, work and shop and are open at convenient times without the need to make an appointment.”

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