Laura Bojarskaite from the University of Oslo has warned people with allergies against drying their bed sheets outdoors during the heatwave (Image: SWNS)
A neuroscientist and sleep researcher has issued a warning to 16 million Britons who suffer from hay fever during the summer months. The Met Office has predicted a “very high” pollen count across the West Midlands and southern regions of the UK this week as temperatures are set to climb into the mid-30s.
Laura Bojarskaite from the University of Oslo has cautioned those with allergies against hanging their bed linen outside to dry during the heatwave.
“During periods of high pollen counts, bedsheets, pillowcases and blankets left to dry outdoors can collect pollen grains,” she said. “Bringing those sheets into bed means you’re introducing allergens directly into the environment where you spend seven to nine hours every night, potentially prolonging exposure and worsening symptoms while you sleep.”
This has a damaging impact on sleep quality. “Hay fever can significantly disrupt sleep, and poor sleep can in turn make allergy symptoms feel even more difficult to cope with,” Laura, whose research has been published in leading journals like Nature Communications, explained. “This creates a vicious cycle during allergy season.”
The hallmarks of seasonal allergies, including blocked noses, sneezing and irritated eyes, can make it considerably more challenging to drift off and remain asleep. “Nasal congestion is particularly problematic because it increases mouth breathing and sleep fragmentation, reducing the amount of restorative sleep,” Laura said.
A neuroscientist and sleep researcher has issued a warning to 16 million Brits who experience hay fever in the summer (Image: SWNS)
“People with allergic rhinitis are also more likely to experience daytime fatigue, impaired concentration, and reduced cognitive performance,” Laura says, explaining that this is because their sleep has been disrupted.
“Research consistently shows that allergic rhinitis is associated with poorer sleep quality, increased night-time awakenings and greater daytime sleepiness.”
During periods of high pollen counts, bedsheets, pillowcases and blankets left to dry outdoors can collect pollen grains, she said (Image: SWNS)
The Met Office forecast indicates both elevated pollen levels and soaring temperatures for numerous parts of the country throughout much of the week. While some may view this as a chance to finally tackle their laundry pile, for many, that’s far from the wisest choice.
“This doesn’t mean everyone needs to avoid drying laundry outside all summer, but during peak pollen days – or if your symptoms are severe – drying bedding indoors or using a tumble dryer is a sensible precaution,” Laura said. “The goal is to reduce the amount of pollen that reaches your bedroom while keeping your airways as clear as possible.”
Reduce hay fever symptoms at night
“Your bedroom should be a recovery environment, not an extension of the outdoors,” Laura said. “During pollen season, reducing allergens in the bedroom can make a meaningful difference to both your allergy symptoms and your sleep quality.”
Temperatures are rising once more (Image: SWNS)
One crucial factor to bear in mind is that many people try to compensate for poor sleep by spending more time in bed, Laura said: “Unfortunately, if you’re awake because you’re congested or uncomfortable, simply lying in bed longer rarely improves sleep quality. Treating the allergy itself is often the most effective way to improve sleep.”
