UK households should keep their windows closed at night this weekend, according to the Met Office. The advice comes as pollen levels are expected to be high nationwide throughout the weekend.

April marks the peak of tree pollen season and the start of grass pollen season. It is estimated that 16 million people in the UK suffer from hay fever, a common allergic reaction to airborne pollen, dust mites, or mould.

With the weather agency forecasting high levels this weekend, households have been advised to take extra precautions to protect themselves. Even those who do not suffer from hay fever can experience side effects, including sneezing, itchy/runny noses, and watery eyes. Therefore, taking small steps to keep yourself and loved ones safe is advised.

The Met Office advises people to "close windows at night".

This helps avoid the evening pollen drop and prevents allergens from entering your home during the next peak. The weather agency has issued various pieces of advice for UK households to keep in mind for the weekend.

Many people will likely be out over the Bank Holiday weekend, and therefore it is advised to remove any outdoor clothing and shower or wash your hair after being out during high pollen exposure.

Be sure to avoid drying laundry outdoors, as pollen easily attaches to clothing and can bring it into the house.

According to the Met Office, the best way to treat hay fever involves two stages: defence and relief. The first is preventive treatments, such as taking antihistamine tablets, which work by blocking the action of histamines that cause hay fever symptoms to flare up.

Alternatively, you can use barrier nasal sprays and nasal gels that act directly in the nose and work within minutes by preventing allergens from entering the nasal passage.

The second stage is relief. The Met Office states: "The longer the exposure to the allergen, the more severe the symptoms become. So in the later stages of hay fever, the key is often to manage and minimise the symptoms - enabling you to get back to normal life.

"While antihistamines may be helpful in reducing a runny nose, or sneezing, they are less effective in combatting congestion. However, corticosteroid nasal sprays can help to control a number of different symptoms - from inflammation of the nasal lining and itchy red eyes, to a runny nose, swollen sinuses and sneezing."

It adds that households should keep up to date with weather and pollen forecasts to be aware of levels.