An estimated 13 million people across Britain suffer from hay fever
Fiona Callingham Lifestyle writer
16:19, 21 Mar 2026
An unusual nose trick could help lessen the symptoms of hay fever(Image: Getty)
The NHS has recommended an unusual nostril technique that may help ward off hay fever, as parts of Britain – including Scotland – are set to have “high” pollen levels this weekend.
Around 13 million Brits struggle with hay fever – a prevalent allergic reaction caused by airborne particles such as pollen. Also referred to as allergic rhinitis, it brings with it a range of irritating symptoms including sneezing, itchy eyes and headaches.
Symptoms typically worsen when pollen levels are high. According to the Met Office, three regions across the UK will experience high pollen counts today (Saturday, March 21).
An estimated 13 million people across the UK are thought to suffer from hay fever(Image: Getty)
These include Grampian, and Central, Tayside and Fife in Scotland, along with North East England. Yorkshire and Humber and Dumfries, Galloway, Lothian and Borders are both forecast to see “medium” pollen levels.
Whilst pharmacy treatments and remedies for hay fever such as antihistamines are available, there are also straightforward tricks you can attempt at home to reduce your contact with pollen. On its website, the NHS states: “There’s currently no cure for hay fever and you cannot prevent it.
“But you can do things to ease your symptoms when the pollen count is high.” Among its recommendations, the health service suggests applying something around your nostrils.
Putting petroleum jelly around your nostrils could help trap pollen, according to the NHS(Image: Getty)
It advises: “Put petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) around your nostrils to trap pollen.”
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Additional NHS guidance for alleviating hay fever symptoms includes:
- Wear wraparound sunglasses, a mask or a wide-brimmed hat to prevent pollen from entering your nose and eyes
- Shower and change your clothing after being outdoors to remove pollen
- Keep windows and doors closed as much as you can
- Vacuum regularly and dust using a damp cloth
- Consider fitting a pollen filter in your car’s air vents, if available, and a HEPA filter in your vacuum
- Do not cut grass or walk on grass
- Do not spend excessive time outdoors
- Do not keep fresh flowers indoors
- Do not smoke or be near smoke – it worsens your symptoms
- Do not dry washing outside – it can collect pollen
- Do not allow pets inside the house if possible – they can bring pollen indoors
It also suggests consulting a pharmacist if you’re suffering from hay fever. You should then visit your GP if your symptoms are deteriorating, or your symptoms fail to improve after using pharmacy medicines.