Common wellbeing worries answered by a pharmacist

Suffering with annoying niggles and pains but don't know what's causing them? Here Whitney Lodovica, pharmacist at Boots, tackles four frequently asked health questions

- 

I've got a runny nose - is it hayfever or the flu?

Hayfever is an allergic reaction to pollen, a fine powder produced by certain plants. Symptoms typically occur when the pollen comes into contact with your mouth, nose, eyes and throat, and can include sneezing and coughing, a runny or blocked nose and itchy, red or watery eyes.

While there could be some similarities between symptoms of a cold and hayfever, the latter can last a few weeks or months, whereas a cold will usually go away after one to two weeks. There are many ways you can help to relieve and manage hayfever symptoms, including some home remedies and simple lifestyle hacks:

Protect your eyes

For many sufferers, the eyes are one of the most impacted. Wraparound sunglasses can stop pollen getting into your eyes and provide additional protection. If you are experiencing dry, sore or watery eyes, allergy relief eye drops can be used to help.

Trap the pollen before it hits your nose

To help manage symptoms, you could consider using a nasal spray alongside antihistamines. Applying a barrier balm of petroleum jelly around your nose is also a great way to trap the pollen and help relieve dry and uncomfortable skin from repetitive nose blowing.

Speak to a pharmacist

Your local pharmacist is always on hand to offer advice on which products could be suitable - from antihistamine tablets, to eye drops or nasal sprays. If over-the-counter remedies are not helping, speak to your GP.

I've been sitting in the office all day and now my back is aching. How can I ease the symptoms?