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Up to 49% of the UK population report hay fever symptoms

2020 study by Allergy UK

Pollen allergies (Hay fever)

Welcome to our page on pollen allergies, commonly known as hay fever.

​Whether you're sneezing through the spring or suffering itchy eyes in the summer, we are here to help you understand and manage your symptoms. The world of pollen allergies is more involved than you might imagine. Understanding your condition and exactly what is triggering it is the first step to keep your symptoms at bay. ​

The Pollen Season: When Does It Begin & End?

The pollen season in the UK can start as early as late February/March and usually stretches until the end of summer, although in some cases it can go on until autumn. This extensive period covers the time when various plants release their pollen into the air, triggering allergies in susceptible individuals.

There is evidence to suggest that urban pollution and climate change may extend the pollen season, making it even more challenging for those affected.

Take a look at our pollen calendar to find out more. 

Different Types of Pollen Allergies

Pollen allergies are diverse, and the type of pollen you're sensitive to can determine when you experience the worst of your symptoms. Allergy testing is therefore very important to help determine which pollen is responsible for the symptoms, and this can also impact how the allergy is treated. The main pollen offenders are: trees, grass & weeds. ​​

Tree Pollen

With tree pollen allergies, you might react to pollen from trees such as:

  • London Plane Tree

  • Silver Birch

  • Cypress Tree

  • Beech or Ash.

Typically February - May

Grass Pollen

This is the most common cause of hay fever and includes varieties like: 

  • Timothy Grass

  • Bermuda Grass

  • Perennial Rye Grass

Typically May - July

Weed Pollen

Common causes of hay fever from Weeds are:

  • Mugwort

  • Nettle

  • Hemp

  • Russian Thistle

Typically July - September

Symptoms of Pollen Allergies

Pollen allergies often lead to rhinitis or rhinoconjunctivitis. For some people, these symptoms are just a mild nuisance and can be managed with over-the-counter antihistamines. However, for others, hay fever can be a debilitating condition. Severe symptoms can interrupt your work, disrupt your sleep, and leave you feeling exhausted.
 
The constant barrage of symptoms can make it difficult to function in your daily life, significantly affecting your productivity and overall well-being.​

Itchy nose
Blocked nose sensation
Runny nose
Sneezing

Stuffy sensation
Itchy throat & mouth
Itchy, red & watering eyes

Doctor and Patient

Treatment options

The main method to manage hay fever symptoms is antihistamines.  Although they don't work perfectly for everyone and some people might struggle to tolerate them due to drowsiness or other side effects.  If you're struggling with these issues, you're not alone, and there are other options available.
 
Immunotherapy is a popular choice for people with severe hay fever who cannot tolerate antihistamines, or find that they are not sufficient. 

Contact us today to find the best way to tackle your symptoms. A specialist can work with you on testing, a diagnosis and a treatment plan to stop hay fever from controlling your life and help you to move forwards to a symptom-free future!

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