Allergen expert’s top tips for golfers with hay fever

Golf season is officially underway, and as the days get warmer and the nights get longer, we can’t blame you for being desperate to head out onto the course.

However, there is one major problem affecting golfers at this time of year, the dreaded hay fever that can ruin rounds more than an eight on the scorecard.

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Grass pollen is the main culprit, but to get by its unpleasant symptoms, we’ve got advice from an airborne allergens expert.

Max Wiseberg is a long-time sufferer of hay fever himself, and claims “prevention is better than cure” for the 95% of hay fever sufferers allergic to grass pollen.

With trusted and extensive knowledge of all forms of treatment and practical advice, here are Wiseberg’s top tips to help get you through 18 holes unharmed.

Hair

“Tie your hair up and wear a hat or cap during your round to prevent pollen particles from being caught in your hair.”

Face

“Use an organic drug-free allergen barrier balm such as HayMax before you go out on the course, which can be applied to the nostrils and bones of the eyes in the morning and throughout the day.

“Wear wraparound sunglasses during your round to prevent pollen particles from coming into contact with your eyes.

“Wash your face or take a shower to wash away allergens so that they can’t cause a reaction. A cool compress will soothe sore eyes.”

Clothes

“Change your clothes when you return home. Dry your clothes indoors rather than on an outdoor clothesline to stop pollen being blown onto it by the outside wind.”

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Time

“Try to time your game so it’s not when pollen counts are highest, during the peak morning and evening periods. Symptoms are usually worst at these times, so avoid going outdoors then.”

Lifestyle

“Stay hydrated and eat lots of fruit and vegetables to stay healthy and support your immune system.

“I suggest that your ideal hay fever first aid kit will consist of one or more natural products, only one antihistamine, only one steroid nasal spray and eye drops.

“Never take two antihistamines together, never take two steroid nasal sprays together, and consult your pharmacist or doctor if you are already taking any other medication.”