Lots of people suffer with hay fever and, with warmer weather approaching, the NHS has issued advice for people who grapple with the condition. However, if you're starting to feel like you're being impacted by pollen, a pharmacist has offered keyhealth advice that may just help you too.

Pharmacist Anum, as she's known online, recently shared expert advice to help people deal with their hay fever correctly, and get ahead of the game. If you fail to act at a crucial moment, she said it could lead to your symptoms getting even worse, so it's important to take action.

It follows other essential advice that was given to hay fever suffers. Pharmacists also note people should try and stick to an important two-week rule too.

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Pharmacist Anum said: "So, whose hay fever symptoms are already starting to kick in? The weather's starting to warm up, let's talk about the best time to start your hay fever medication.

"Generally, in the UK, we start to see pollen levels rising during early spring, and this can sometimes be earlier if the weather is warmer. Now, usually, we start to see tree pollen levels rising first, then followed by grass pollen levels.

"That's why some people can start to experience hay fever symptoms a lot earlier on in the year than you would usually expect. Now guidance suggests that hay fever symptoms are better controlled when you start taking your hay fever medication before the symptoms get severe.

"Therefore, if you know when your symptoms are coming on, it's best to start your hay fever medication then to avoid them getting more severe and more problematic later on in the year. Take home message is don't wait until your symptoms get really bad.

"Managing your hay fever symptoms early on is key, and please remember that hay fever medications are not suitable for everybody. So, if you're considering taking them, speak with your pharmacist first to see if they're suitable and appropriate for you."

It's important advice to listen to as we head into spring. In fact, there are some rules you need to follow when it comes to taking medication.

You may not realise it, but you shouldn't wait for hay fever symptoms to come on before starting to take your medication. In fact, it's highly recommended to take hay fever medication, particularly antihistamines and nasal sprays, two to four weeks before your symptoms usually start to build up protection.

Taking them early (pre-season) helps to prevent the histamine reaction rather than trying to reverse it. This is more effective than treating symptoms after they appear.

It's usually advised people take the medication in the morning in a bid to get ahead of peak pollen counts, which are often highest in the early morning and afternoon. However, if you suffer from severe symptoms during the night, taking medication in the evening may be more effective.

All medication differs, so check the label to ensure you're using it correctly. You can also speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you need extra guidance.

You should also speak to them before starting to take any new medication to work out which kind is best for you. Contact your GP if you feel you need help managing hay fever symptoms.

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