It’s the season of sneezing as spring brings hayfever to Wagga

Despite the dry weather during winter – or perhaps because of it – there is a lot of pollen in the air and Wagga’s medical experts say plenty of people are currently being affected.

Clinical nurse consultant Robyn Paton said hayfever and allergies seemed to be felt by a lot of Wagga people, with the arrival of spring’s blossoms at the same time as many were still shaking off winter viruses.

Ms Paton said September was also the time of the year when the Murrumbidgee Local Health District launched its asthma awareness campaign.

“We always launch our asthma program right at the beginning of September, and even though we are in drought, there still seems to be enough particles in the atmosphere to be having hayfever and sinus problems, probably a bit earlier this year,” she said.

“There are medications you can take for hayfever and sinus, but if you do, it is really important to follow your doctor’s instructions on how to take it correctly and when.”

Wagga paediatrician Theresa Pitts, who has a special interest in allergies, also suspects Wagga’s spring could be tough for people with hayfever and allergies.

“It seems to be earlier and worse than we have seen the past,” Dr Pitts said.

While adults may be more easily able to identify their likely symptoms, Dr Pitts said it could be harder for children to explain their condition.

She said parents who were worried about their children should be watching for the common symptoms, like a runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing.

“Hayfever and allergies sometimes come as eczema, so keep an eye out for rashes on the skin,” Dr Pitts said.

Both Dr Pitts and Ms Paton recommend staying inside on windy, dusty days when there is likely to be a lot of pollen in the air.

“Follow your treatment plan. Have a plan for what to do if it gets worse, but on those really windy days, stay inside,” Ms Paton said.