British survey reports QoL issues for children, adults with hay fever

Two-thirds of parents whose children experience hay fever reported that their childhoods “have been damaged” as a result, according to the British Airborne Allergy Report.

Thirteen percent of parents said that airborne allergy symptoms have made their child’s life “miserable” or prevented children from attending school, while 9% of the children have difficulty leaving the house during the summer, according to a press release. The report was commissioned by air purification company Fellowes — in association with Asthma UK — and based on input from 2,000 respondents in Britain.

Parents reported that airborne allergies have stopped 9% of children from pursuing hobbies and 6% from sports, according to the release.

“Britain has one of the highest allergy rates in the world and what this research makes very clear is the serious effect they have on our health,” Lindsey McManus, deputy chief executive officer of Allergy UK, said in the release.

Adults reported that allergies also affected their quality of life. Forty-six percent said they missed “major life events” such as weddings because of hay fever, while 10% reported depression and 25%, exhaustion, the release stated. Twenty-eight percent said they were unable to sleep during the summer because of pollen.

Two-thirds of respondents reported taking medications for their allergies, which will cost an estimated ₤384 million in 2014. Forty-three percent of adults reported a formal diagnosis of their allergies from a medical professional.

“Coping with respiratory allergies such asthma, hay fever and allergic rhinitis requires a good allergen management plan.” McManus said. “The correct use of medication is vitally important, and we would advise sufferers to discuss this with their GP or pharmacist but also to consider all allergen avoidance options — from air purifiers to changing soft furnishings and furniture, as part of their management plan.”