Common issues

Pollen allergy

Pollen allergy is a seasonal allergy to pollen, in Iceland mainly from grasses and trees. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, blocked nose, itchy eyes, and fatigue.

Symptoms follow the pollen season and can significantly affect sleep, concentration, and daily life, even though they are rarely dangerous.

When is the service not suitable?

  • Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or worsening asthma.
  • Severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or throat.
  • Allergy testing, desensitization, or diagnosis of a new allergy.
  • Symptoms that do not respond to allergy medication.

General advice

Here are practical tips to reduce pollen allergy symptoms in daily life.

Main points

Avoid situations that trigger severe symptoms.
Rinse your nose and eyes with saline before using allergy medication.
Pay close attention to hygiene and dust control at home.

Good advice

  • Air out your home well and vacuum regularly.
  • Shower and change clothes when there is a lot of pollen outside.
  • Change pillowcases regularly.
  • Wash and dry clothes indoors.
  • Wipe pets down with a wet cloth when they come inside.

Avoid

  • Avoid gardening (or use a mask/protective glasses).
  • Do not keep fresh flowers indoors.
  • Limit the use of perfume and aftershave.
  • Avoid scented laundry detergents.

Hygiene and dust control

Good dust control at home can make a big difference. It is important to remove items that collect dust, such as rugs, and consider using air purifiers if symptoms are severe.

Home checklist

Vacuum floors and furniture regularly
Keep pets out of the bedroom
Use fragrance-free laundry detergents
Air out the home when pollen counts are low

Using allergy medication

Rinsing

Use saline to rinse the nose and eyes before using allergy medication.

Cleaning

Rinsing removes pollen sitting on the mucous membranes.

Medication

Once the area has been cleaned, your medication works best.

The advice above is general and does not replace medical advice. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not go away.

Please note

Fjarlækningar handles simple, clearly defined issues. Some cases require an examination, testing, or emergency care — and are directed to another care pathway. In emergencies, call 112.

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