Doctor warns hay fever season is set to strike earlier than usual - four tips on how to prepare for it
As temperatures begin to rise, so will the pollen levels 🌼
- As temperatures rise so too will pollen levels.
- More than 10 million people across the UK live with hay fever.
- NHS GP and Olbas spokesperson Dr Roger Henderson is urging people to prepare now.
Spring is finally on the horizon, after 54 days of rain, the UK is looking forward to basking in some sunshine, but as the temperatures rise, so will the pollen levels.
The pollen season is expected to start earlier this year. Environmental factors such as air pollution and shifting weather patterns are thought to be behind the changes, which are making hay fever symptoms more common and less predictable.
NHS GP and Olbas spokesperson Dr Roger Henderson is urging people to prepare now, before symptoms take hold.
Dr Henderson said: “Hay fever is often mistaken for a cold at this time of year. They share symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose, but itchy, watery eyes are a key sign it’s an allergy. Unlike a cold, hay fever can persist for weeks or months if not managed properly. If we prepare early, many people can significantly reduce the impact hay fever has on their day-to-day life.”
What is hay fever?
Hay fever is a common allergic reaction to pollen, pet dander, mould or insects that can cause symptoms such as sneezing, coughing and itchy eyes. There is no cure, but treatments are available to offer relief and can be purchased over-the-counter or on prescription.
How to prepare for hay fever season?
As we head into hay fever season, preparation is absolutely key. Dr Henderson has shared the four steps you can take to help prevent symptoms this spring.
Identify your triggers
One of the most important first steps is identifying what triggers your hay fever symptoms. Tree pollen tends to dominate in spring, grass pollen in summer, and weed pollen later in the season. Checking local pollen forecasts and keeping a simple symptom diary can help people understand when they’re most vulnerable.
Start treatment early
Rather than waiting until symptoms are having an impact, start taking antihistamines a week or two before your usual hay fever season starts. Antihistamines help block histamine release, which reduces sneezing, itching and a runny nose, while nasal steroid sprays reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
Reduce pollen exposure
Keep windows closed during early morning and late afternoon, as this is when pollen is highest. Shower and change clothes after being outdoors, and wash your hair before bed to avoid transferring pollen onto your pillow.
Wearing wraparound sunglasses outside can help protect the eyes, and applying a small amount of petroleum jelly inside the nostrils can trap pollen before it enters the nasal passages.
At home, avoid drying clothes outside during peak season, vacuum and wash bedding regularly, and consider using an air purifier. If you have pets, remember they can bring pollen indoors on their fur, so regular grooming and cleaning can help.
Utilise decongestants
Particularly during peak season, when congestion is at its worst, decongestants can offer relief. They work by reducing swelling in the nasal passages and easing the blocked feeling.
Decongestant sprays can provide quick relief by shrinking nasal tissue directly and are especially helpful at bedtime or before going outside on high-pollen days. However, they should only be used for short periods to avoid rebound congestion.
Hay fever season is around the corner. You can find out more information about the signs and symptoms at NHS.UK.