The pollen count is a measurement of the amount of pollen in the air. The higher the count the more severe symptoms of hay fever can become (depending on the specific type of pollen you are allergic to).
In the UK, 1 in 5 people suffer from hay fever. 95% of sufferers are allergic to grass pollen.
Finding it hard to talk about how you are really feeling? Samaritans is a safe place to turn; it’s anonymous and confidential: 08457 90 90 90 or jo@samaritans.org .
If something is troubling you, Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All chats are completely confidential. You can reach them on 08457 90 90 90 or jo@samaritans.org .
Major A&E departments offer access 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, although not all hospitals have an A&E department. At A&E a doctor or nurse will assess your condition and decide on further action.
Outside of normal surgery hours you can still ‘phone your GP, but you will usually be directed to an out-of-hours service. The out-of-hours period is from 6.30pm to 8am on weekdays, and all day at weekends and on bank holidays.
You need to make an appointment to see your doctor for non life-threatening illness. You don’t need one for an NHS walk-in centre, A&E and some pharmacists.
At NHS walk-in centres you can see an experienced nurse or doctor (although not all centres have a doctor) without an appointment. They offer advice, assessment and treatment for minor ailments and injuries such as cuts, bruises, minor infections, strains and skin complaints.
Life-threatening emergencies include: loss of consciousness/acute confused state and fits that are not stopping/persistent, severe chest pain/breathing difficulties/severe bleeding that cannot be stopped.
Visit Accident & Emergency or call 999 for life-threatening emergencies and severe injuries. Otherwise visit your GP, a walk-in centre, a pharmacist or call 111.