Warm weather set to increase pollen levels, Met Éireann warns

Met Éireann has warned of a “high to very high” risk from grass pollen during warm, dry weather in the coming days, creating uncomfortable conditions for people with hay fever.

The national weather forecaster said high levels of airborne nettle pollen combined with increasing amounts of fungal spores will be prevalent.

Those with allergies may find themselves succumbing to sneezing, headaches and itchy eyes this week as a result. The highest levels will be found in Leinster and Munster on Friday with “high” levels across the rest of the island.

As well as sneezing and a blocked or runny nose, hay fever can also cause red, itchy or watery eyes, which can be particularly problematic for contact lens wearers.

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The advice for those who wear contact lenses is not to rub the eyes to ease discomfort, and to try not to touch the face. Ensure good hand hygiene, particularly while the pandemic continues.

Contact-lens-friendly eye drops can help to calm down any itchiness and wearing prescription glasses — particularly wraparound sunglasses — can prevent pollen from getting into the eyes, according to advice from opticians chain Specsavers.

“Allergic reactions can affect the lining of the middle ear via the Eustachian tube, which links the middle ear to the nose and throat. If this becomes blocked it can lead to a build-up in pressure, which can cause discomfort, popping in the ears, earache and impair your ability to hear” said Martina McNulty of Specsaver Audiology.

“To avoid irritation, try putting a balm like Vaseline around the nose to trap pollen, and vacuum and dust your home regularly, or you can try over-the-counter allergy relief. Staying inside when the pollen count is high will also help to avoid irritation and showering and changing your clothes when you get home will help to remove pollen from skin and hair,” she said.