Are you struggling with hay fever season?
Spring has well and truly sprung in the UK, which means warmer weather and getting back outside again. Unfortunately, for a large number of us, spring and summer also mark the start of hay fever season. Hay fever affects 10 to 15% of children and 26% of adults, causing uncomfortable symptoms that can interfere with daily life. Below we will be exploring hay fever symptoms, causes, and the most effective treatments to help you stay ahead of your hay fever.
What is it and what causes it?
Hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic condition triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. Pollen is a fine powder released by plants, trees, and grasses as part of their reproductive cycle. When someone with hay fever inhales pollen, their immune system mistakenly identifies it as a threat and releases chemicals like histamine, triggering allergy symptoms.
Common symptoms
Hay fever symptoms can be mild to severe and can often include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or blocked nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Itchy throat, mouth, nose, and ears
- Headaches or sinus pressure
- Fatigue (especially when symptoms disrupt sleep)
These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, affecting concentration, sleep quality, and overall wellbeing.
When is hay fever season?
In the UK, hay fever season typically falls into three main periods:
- Tree pollen: Late March to mid-May
- Grass pollen: Mid-May to July (the most common trigger)
- Weed pollen: End of June to September
The severity of symptoms often depends on pollen levels, which tend to be higher on warm, dry, and windy days.
Managing your hay fever
While there is no cure, there are several effective ways to manage symptoms:
- Monitor pollen forecasts
- Keeping an eye on daily pollen counts can help you plan your activities and avoid peak exposure times.
- Stay indoors when pollen levels are high.
- Keep windows and doors closed, especially in the early morning and evening.
- Shower and change clothes after being outdoors.
- Use appropriate treatments
- Antihistamines are one of the most popular treatments to help reduce symptoms by blocking histamine.
- Nasal sprays can relieve congestion and reduce inflammation in nasal passage.
- Eye drops can soothe irritation for itchy or watery eyes.
Always consult a pharmacist or healthcare professional to find the most suitable treatment for you.
- Make small lifestyle adjustments
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen.
- Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly around your nostrils to trap pollen.
- Avoid drying clothes outside during high pollen days.
- Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth to eliminate extra pollen spurs in your home.
- Use air purifiers if needed.
When to seek help
If your symptoms are severe, persistent, or not responding to over-the-counter treatments, it may be worth speaking to your GP. They can recommend stronger medications or explore other treatment options. For more information on hay fever, visit the NHS website.
Final thoughts
Hay fever can be frustrating, but with the right approach, it’s possible to keep symptoms under control and still enjoy the outdoors. By understanding your triggers and taking proactive steps, you can make the most of the warmer months without the discomfort.
For more reading content about your health and wellbeing, check out our other blog posts.
