Millions of Brits might need to take 'second shower' on Thursday - NHS advice

Millions of Brits might need to take 'second shower' on Thursday - NHS advice People might help themselves and others by going straight to the bathroom on Thursday Millions of people could benefit from having a second shower on Thursday, July 9, particularly if they've been out of the house. This simple, refreshing act could help people who struggle with a bothersome health issue that spikes in summer. The reminder comes as the nation prepares for another major pollen surge across the country later this week as temperatures rise. With elevated pollen levels in the air, hay fever sufferers will need to stay vigilant, as symptoms can linger for days. The latest Met Office forecast shows red warnings for 'very high' levels covering most of England and the whole of Wales on Thursday. See the full forecast here. Hay fever impacts roughly 16 million Brits. It's estimated that approximately 20% to 26% of adults and 10% to 15% of youngsters experience a pollen allergy, making it among the most prevalent ongoing health conditions nationwide, reports the Express. With circumstances set to cause millions to struggle, the NHS has guidance for the public. One recommendation is to repeat a daily routine that could help people settle indoors without triggering their allergies. The NHS says that, while sufferers cannot cure the allergy, there are methods to lessen symptoms. One of those suggestions is to shower and change your outfit after being outdoors on days with high pollen counts. Rinsing in the shower removes pollen stuck to your skin and scalp before it can trigger an allergic response. By switching clothes, you can stop pollen from settling on indoor soft furnishings like settees and rugs, drastically cutting your overall allergen exposure at home. It's best to steer clear of baths, as the water can trap airborne pollen on its surface, potentially redepositing it back onto your skin. Showers, meanwhile, produce steam that can help to unblock congested nasal passages. Even if you don't personally suffer from hay fever, you may share your home with someone who does. By following the same 'rule' of changing and washing your clothes, you won't inadvertently undermine their efforts to avoid pollen by carrying pollen on your clothing and body. Some may find relief with antihistamines (available as drops, tablets, or nasal sprays) or steroid nasal sprays. It's worth consulting a GP if symptoms worsen or fail to improve following treatment with pharmacy medicines. What else does the NHS suggest? The health service has a list of advice on its website about how people can relieve symptoms. It suggests: - Put petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) around your nostrils to trap pollen - Wear wraparound sunglasses, a mask or a wide-brimmed hat to stop pollen from getting into your nose and eyes - Keep windows and doors shut as much as possible - Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth - Try to use a pollen filter in the air vents of your car, if you have one, and a HEPA filter in your vacuum cleaner The NHS also suggests that there are some things to avoid - aside from the obvious. They list the following 'lesser known' triggers online: - Do not cut grass or walk on grass - Do not spend too much time outside - Do not keep fresh flowers in the house - Do not smoke or be around smoke – it makes your symptoms worse - Do not dry clothes outside – they can catch pollen - Do not let pets into the house if possible – they can carry pollen indoors