As hay fever season sweeps across the UK, many people are struggling with the usual symptoms of sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. This annual occurrence brings discomfort to millions of individuals, impacting their productivity and quality of life. However, amidst the pollen-laden air, a new wave of startups is emerging, dedicated to tackling the challenges of hay fever head-on.

Fortunately, there are measures individuals can take to alleviate hay fever symptoms. From staying informed about pollen forecasts to creating barriers against pollen exposure, such as wearing sunglasses and applying petroleum jelly around the nostrils, simple precautions can make a difference.

As hay fever continues to affect a significant portion of the population, the emergence of startups addressing this issue signifies a growing awareness of the impact of seasonal allergies on people’s lives.

Why Do People Get Hay Fever?

Hay fever is a common allergy that occurs when the immune system of the body overreacts to pollen from grasses, trees, and weeds. These plants release tiny grains of pollen into the air during the spring and summer as part of their reproductive process.

When people with hay fever inhale this pollen, their immune system mistakenly identifies it as a harmful invader and releases histamines and other chemicals to fight it off. This immune response triggers symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and congestion.

The severity of hay fever can vary depending on factors like pollen count, individual sensitivity, and the types of pollen present. Although hay fever is not usually life-threatening, it can significantly impact daily life by causing discomfort and affecting productivity. Understanding the triggers and managing symptoms through medication, avoidance strategies, or allergy shots can help individuals cope with hay fever and enjoy the warmer months more comfortably.

How To Prevent Hay Fever And Manage Symptoms

Several practical steps can be taken to prevent hay fever and manage its symptoms. Firstly, staying informed about pollen forecasts can help people anticipate high pollen days and take precautions accordingly. Planning outdoor activities during times when pollen levels are lower, such as after rain or in the evening, can reduce exposure.

Creating a barrier against pollen can be helpful. Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly around the nostrils can trap pollen before it enters the nasal passages. Additionally, wearing a hat with a wide brim and long-sleeved clothing can prevent pollen from settling on hair and skin.

Keeping indoor environments clean is also crucial. Regularly vacuuming carpets, dusting surfaces, and washing bedding in hot water can help eliminate pollen particles that may have been brought indoors. Using an air purifier with a filter can also reduce indoor allergens.

In terms of medication, over-the-counter antihistamines can provide relief from hay fever symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and congestion. Nasal sprays containing corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, alleviating congestion and discomfort. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication to ensure it’s suitable for individual needs.

By combining these strategies, individuals can effectively manage hay fever symptoms and enjoy the outdoors more comfortably and easily.

Startups Tackling Hay Fever

These startups offer solutions ranging from smart pollen trackers to natural remedies, aiming to provide relief and support to allergy sufferers.

Respiray

Respiray offers the Wear A+ wearable personal air purifier, designed to provide effective protection against allergens, viruses, and air pollution. Using an H12 HEPA filter, it captures over 99% of pollutants, including those that trigger hay fever symptoms like pollen and mould spores.

By allowing users to breathe cleaner air wherever they are, Respiray helps alleviate hay fever discomfort and promotes overall respiratory health.

Piri

Piri offers a range of products designed to provide effective relief from hay fever and allergies. Their products, including Pirinase nasal spray and Piriteze tablets, target common symptoms like itchy eyes, runny nose, and congestion.

By offering fast-acting solutions that act within 30 to 60 minutes, Piri helps alleviate hay fever discomfort and improves overall allergy management for individuals and families.

Thriva

Thriva offers a convenient at-home finger-prick blood test kit designed to help users understand their internal health. Their test measures IgG antibodies to various allergens, including pollen, indicating sensitivity levels.

By providing actionable insights and personalised recommendations based on the results, Thriva empowers users to make informed lifestyle changes to alleviate hay fever symptoms and improve overall health. With a focus on accuracy, privacy, and data protection, Thriva is a trusted resource for those seeking to live healthier lives.

ible

ible is an IoT & wearable device company founded in 2015, prioritising high standards in design and functionality. Their flagship product, Airvida, is a wearable air purifier series aimed at improving air quality and enhancing life. It removes up to 99.9% of pollutants, including pollen, PM2.5, and viruses, validated by third-party lab tests and international certifications.

Recognised with prestigious awards, Airvida is endorsed by medical professionals and users alike for its efficacy in combating air pollution and alleviating allergic symptoms. As a reliable ally in the pursuit of better health, ible’s Airvida promises to make life simply better for its users.

Well Science

Well Science is dedicated to revolutionising respiratory allergy management through innovative combinations of natural ingredients. Acting as a trusted partner in allergy management, Well Science strives to improve lives by offering effective, all-natural solutions.

Their flagship product, BlossomUp, is a novel food supplement designed to support individuals through the pollen season with its natural ingredients, Swiss-made quality, and effectiveness. Well Science collaborates with esteemed advisors, investors, and partners who share their passion for health and nutrition, driving meaningful business growth for the benefit of their customers.

LIFY AIR

LIFY AIR addresses the pressing issue of pollen allergies by offering an alert system. With allergies affecting a significant portion of the global population, especially in industrialised nations, the demand for real-time pollen information is on the rise. LIFY AIR is at the forefront of this challenge, providing a solution based on patented optical sensors and artificial intelligence algorithms. Their innovative approach enables the identification and tracking of pollen types in real time.

Through their user-friendly app, individuals suffering from allergies receive timely and geolocated information, empowering them to take proactive measures such as adjusting medication and altering behaviour to mitigate symptoms. By improving daily life and reducing associated health costs, LIFY AIR aims to make a meaningful impact on public health and allergy management.