Hayfever"At this time every year, just as the garden needs most attention, my partner claims his hayfever prevents him from doing his share. Is he swinging the lead or has he a legitimate excuse?"
I'm afraid hayfever can be a most unpleasant thing and your boyfriend deserves a little more sympathy. Hayfever, otherwise known as allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction of the nose, throat and eyes to irritant particles in the air.
For most people it is a seasonal condition that makes them feel like they have a constant cold. It is most common during spring and summer. Problems occur when airborne irritants, known as allergens, enter the nose, throat and eyes and cause sensitive mast cells to become active. These cells release a substance called histamine which gives rise to hayfever.
"Now that you mention it, he does sniffle a lot at this time of the year."
Yes, this is a common symptom as is sneezing, running and itchy nose, itchy dry throat and itching eyes. It can also make the sufferer feel listless and irritable and can even affect concentration.
"But surely it can be cured?"
No-one has yet found a cure for hayfever. In mild cases, self-help measures can make a difference. Pollen from trees, plants and grasses are the usual culprits that trigger an attack. Your boyfriend should avoid contact with pollen and, where possible, he should avoid cutting grass or being outside while you are doing it. He should stay indoors and keep the windows shut, thereby preventing pollen from coming into the house. While outdoors he should wear sunglasses to avoid pollen irritating his eyes. If his hayfever is severe, then a visit to his doctor is recommended. Prescription antihistamine medication, sprays for the nose and eye drops will all help keep his symptoms under control.
"So it's not just an excuse?"
I'm afraid not. As far as the gardening goes, you're on your own!