As the UK braces for an early summer heatwave, experts are warning hay fever sufferers to take extra precautions, especially behind the wheel.
Google searches for “why is my hayfever so bad today” increased by 100% in the past week, while searches for “hayfever in May” increased by 110%.
The Met Office has forecast temperatures reaching the mid to high 20s in the coming days, ideal conditions for high pollen levels; which can worsen common symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes and congestion.
But according to motoring experts at GAP insurance provider ALA Insurance, one overlooked setting in your car could actually be making symptoms worse: the air conditioning.
Is the air con making my hay fever worse?
ALA Insurance suggests that most modern cars have a built in pollen filtration system, designed to stop pesky pollen from making its way into your car while you have the air con on.
However, these filters can become clogged, and stop working effectively. Ahead of the peak hay fever months, ALA Insurance recommends having this important element checked before embarking on any road trips.
This won’t be the case for all cars, some older models may not have this built in, but most of the time you can buy these parts separately and have them fitted by a professional.
Without this, turning your aircon on in the spring and summer could actually make your hay fever symptoms worse, by locking particles of pollen and dust in the car with you during your journey, especially if the fans are pointed directly at your face.
What to do if you’re suffering from hay fever while driving
Dawn Cranmer from ALA Insurance says, “If you’re struggling with hay fever symptoms while on the road, there are few tricks you can try to minimise the problem.
“Firstly, it can be tempting to wind the windows down while the weather is warm, but this could be doing more harm than good when it comes to protecting you from pollen, especially if you’re taking the scenic route through country roads.
“If your car has a built-in cabin filter, rely on using your air con when it’s warm, instead of letting fresh air in through your windows.
“Secondly, consider taking a trip to the carwash before and after any long journeys, and have the inside and outside regularly cleaned. Pollen and dust tend to hang around, especially in the inside of your car, which could trigger your symptoms before you’ve even set off.
“Not only are sunglasses a must for maintaining visibility of the road during sunny days, but they can also prevent pollen particles from irritating your eyes. I recommend keeping a pair handy in your car in case. But don’t forget to give them a wipe every now and again to remove any build up.”
For more tips and tricks on staying safe while driving, visit ALA Insurance.
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