Seasonal Allergies

Hay fever happens because the immune system mistakes pollen for something harmful. When pollen particles are breathed in through the nose or mouth, the body reacts by releasing chemicals like histamine. These cause inflammation in the lining of the nose, throat, and eyes, which leads to the familiar symptoms of hay fever.

Different types of pollen are released at different times of the year. Tree pollen is usually highest in spring, grass pollen peaks in early summer, and weed pollen can cause problems later in the year. Some people are affected by more than one type of pollen, meaning their symptoms last for several months.

Common hay fever symptoms include itchy, red, or watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, and a runny or blocked nose. You may also notice an itchy throat, mouth, or nose.

Less common symptoms include fatigue, loss of smell, headaches, and earaches. People with asthma may experience worsening wheezing or chest tightness during hay fever flare-ups.

While some symptoms can resemble a cold, hay fever typically lasts weeks or even months, unlike a cold, which usually clears within 1 to 2 weeks.

In some cases, symptoms of allergic rhinitis may be triggered by other allergens like dust mites or pet dander. If you notice symptoms outside of pollen season—such as in winter—you may be reacting to a different allergy.

There is no cure for hay fever, but symptoms can usually be well controlled with lifestyle measures and medicines. Avoiding pollen is not always easy, but small changes can help. Keeping windows shut on high pollen days, showering and changing clothes after being outdoors, and wearing wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes can all reduce exposure.

Medicines are often needed, especially at times of year when pollen counts are high.

The main options are:

Antihistamines, taken as tablets, liquids or nasal sprays. These block the effects of histamine, helping with sneezing, itching and runny noses.

Nasal steroid sprays, which reduce inflammation in the nose and are particularly helpful for congestion. They may take a few days to work fully.

Eye drops, which can soothe itchy, red or watery eyes.

Our service can provide treatment options for hay fever in adults, such as antihistamine tablets and nasal sprays. These can make a big difference to your quality of life during pollen season.

Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine. If your symptoms remain severe despite treatment, or if your asthma is getting worse, contact your GP or NHS 111 for further advice. For sudden or severe breathing problems, call 999 straight away.