November, Australia – Research released today reveals that pesky blocked and snotty noses are causing Aussies to change up their summer plans. One in four (24%) of Aussies have cancelled going to the gym, 22% have cancelled a dinner reservation, 15% admit to have cancelled a date and 8% have even cancelled a holiday.

The research commissioned by FESS^® reveals Aussies experience ‘sneez-iety’ in public and behind closed doors. Half of Aussies (52%) say that peeing their pants while sneezing would be the most embarrassing scenario to be in, something that is a reality for one third (33%) of Australians, who admit this has happened to them.  

Don’t get caught out by surprise this season. One in four (25%) Aussies admit that they’d wipe their runny nose on their sleeve if they were out and about without a tissue, while a shocking 18% would wipe it on their hand and 11% would snot rocket. 

Australians have a variety of ways to deal with their blocked nose caused by excess mucus with 39% using a nasal saline spray, 39% taking hot showers and 37% drinking lots of fluids to ease their symptoms.  

Adele Taylor National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice Program Manager said: 

“Reducing your exposure to allergens can reduce the risk of allergic reactions or allergy-related asthma flare-ups. Asthma and allergy symptoms can cause itchy watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, cough, sinus pain and congestion, sore throats, or even worse, severe breathing difficulties in some people.”

Interestingly, 41% of Aussies would consider stocking up on a nasal saline spray throughout the bushfire season to help clear out pollutants from the nasal passages. As we enter the holiday season, good nasal care is important to manage those pesky blocked and snotty noses. For advice on how best to alleviate your symptoms, consult your doctor or pharmacist.  

About FESS  

Regular use of FESS^® nasal spray is one way to help keep the nose clear and functioning at its best, as a natural way to wash away dust, pollen and excess mucus that are common causes of congestion and blocked noses caused by excess mucus. As a non-medicated saline solution, the FESS^® saline range has a product that may be suitable for the whole family, including use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well FESS^® Little Noses for 0-2 years of age and FESS^® Children’s for 2 years of age and above. The FESS range of products are available at most pharmacies. For more information on the FESS product range visit https://fess.com.au/.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. 

About the study 

Commissioned by FESS^® in conjunction with McCrindle, this research was conducted between February 28 and July 25, 2023. Findings are based on a nationally representative sample of 2,008 Australians.  

National Asthma Council Australia 

The National Asthma Council Australia exists to build the capabilities for people to breathe well and facilitate best-practice care for people with [medically diagnosed] asthma and allergies. As the trusted authority leading the attack against [medically diagnosed] asthma, they set and disseminate the standards of care through responsive and evidence-based [medically diagnosed] asthma guidelines, practice tools and resources and renowned education program.  

Through its Sensitive Choice program, The National Asthma Council Australia provide the public with essential information about medically diagnosed asthma and allergy management and empower consumers to identify medically diagnosed asthma and allergy-aware products and services.