Research suggests that students who have allergies or hay fever on exam day are 40% more likely to drop a grade. However, this percentage is increased to 70% if they take antihistamine treatments, which can cause drowsiness.
Hay fever is caused by pollen from trees, grass and weeds. For most, hay fever is harmless but, for some, it can cause an allergic reaction which includes sneezing, itchy eyes, and headaches.
To deal with this problem, students have traditionally had a choice of taking medication and risking the drowsy effects that can follow, or feel the full-on force of hay fever symptoms.
However, there are a number of precautions that can be taken in the run up to, and throughout, the exam period. Many of these are natural, and without negative side effects which can tip the scales in students favour.
Protection
It’s important to protect the rooms where studying and sitting exams are taking place. Creating a good environment for studying ensures students have the best chance when it comes to putting pen to paper. Air purifiers to rid rooms of pollen and other allergens, and steam cleaners also are good for providing a deeper level of cleaning. Both will make a huge impact on the amount of pollen present in your home. Don’t forget to protect your clothes, too. Our Bio-Life Fabric Cleanse denatures 90% of pollen found on your clothes.
In The Lead up to Exam Day
Try out products that can help before exam time so, that way, you know if they are suited to you.
On the Big Exam Day
If possible, ensure that any medication taken is non-drowsy. Remember to bring water and tissues into the exam room with you; keeping hydrated helps reduce side effects. Before the exam, try and reduce the amount of time you spend outdoors and, while indoors, keep windows closed to reduce pollen intake. If you wear them, don’t forget your glasses; they offer an extra shield from pollen.
Hay fever? What hay fever? Good luck everyone!
