Horses, dust and allergies

[tye_bo]

Since getting my horse back at the weekend I've noticed that the dust when mucking out or doing hay etc is really getting to me and giving me sniffles, itchy eyes etc. I've gone up today with one of those neck gaitors to pull over my nose but I wondered what anyone else who is sensitive to dust and hay does?

 

[irishdraught]

Unfortunately I suffer from rhinitis which is an irritation of the nasal passages! I have sneezing fits at any dust, hay or animal hair. Strong perfume sets me off and other strong smells.

I have a nasal spray that I am supposed to use every day but as it is steroid based, I use it only when I have to.

When it is really bad, I have to use a face mask and when possible, I groom outside. I am fortunate that my OH gets stuck in with the horses aswell, so he usually ends up filling the hay nets for me.

It certainly has made me more aware of having a dust free as possible environment for the horses!!

 

[Ezme]

my headcoachwoman has hayfever! She just is constantly dosed on antihistamines 90% of the year! We have rubber matting, dust extracted shavings and haylege, its not just good for the horses! lol

 

[Rachntabby]

i have hayfever and am allergic to horses and other furry animals so i just have to have a few hayfever tablets and carry on but its a nightmare in summer

 

[tye_bo]

I'm going to get a dust mask today and I'll see if that helps. I am also wondering if googles would help as it itches my eyes for ages afterwards. Not sure if I'd feel a bit daft though!!

 

[IsabelleJ]

I am REALLY allergic to hay, but unfortunately also allergic to anti-histamines

My solution is to have my boy on Part livery (everything done except riding) and to suffer on the odd occasions that I have to deal with his hay

For most people, though, anti histamines would be the best solution.

Isabelle

 

[flyingfeet]

I'm allergic to horses, dust, pollen, hay etc and live on a farm.

I had to have my sinuses operated on last year to remove polyps and nasty thick mucus (that couldn't be sucked out!!) caused by a reaction to hay fungi spores.

So I am on steroid inhalers and steroids up the nose and as long as I don't forget them I am usually ok. I then use opticrom drops for the eyes and have to try not to rub them too much after riding.

I ought to be wearing a mask when handling hay and straw, but its not very practical. I compromise with a neil med thingie to thoroughly wash out the sinuses if I've been doing something dusty

Apologies if that was toooo much detail!!