Allergen avoidance and exposure reduction

People with AR are advised to avoid the offending allergens but this may not always be easy to achieve – pollen grains get trapped in hair and clothing, and animal dander and house dust mites are difficult to remove altogether. There is no evidence of clinical benefit for using house dust mite-proof bedding, washing bedding at 55-60°C or replacing carpets with hard flooring.¹

People with allergies to specific early-flowering tree pollen may only have to deal with the problem for a few weeks each year. AR sufferers who are sensitised to cats or dogs should avoid contact with them and pets should not be allowed into children’s bedrooms. Complete avoidance of exposure to occupational allergens is usually recommended.

Another way to reduce exposure to allergens is to use a cellulose powder nasal spray (e.g. Nasaleze, Boots Allergy Barrier Nasal Spray), which combines with moisture in the lining of the nose to form a protective gel layer that prevents allergens from coming into contact with nasal mucosa.

In a double blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study the use of a cellulose powder nasal spray three times daily, significantly reduced severity scores for sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose and symptoms from eyes and lower airways, with no significant adverse effects.⁵ There is little evidence for the effectiveness of barrier products based on bentonite gel.

Petrolatum (Vaseline) can be applied around the nostrils and under the eyes to trap airborne allergens. Alternatives, which may be easier to apply, are Aquaphor ointment or HayMax Pure Organic Drug-Free Allergen Barrier Balm. Barrier methods are unlikely to be effective in AR sufferers who mainly breathe through their mouths.