Hayfever: How to Cope When Pollen Season Strikes

For many of us, spring and summer mean longer days, blooming gardens, and spending more time outdoors. But for hayfever sufferers, this time of year can also bring sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and a relentless runny nose.

What is Hayfever?

Hayfever, or seasonal allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to pollen — usually from grass, trees, or weeds. It affects 1 in 5 people in the UK and can be especially tough from late March to September, when pollen counts are at their highest.

Common symptoms include:

  • Sneezing and coughing

  • A runny or blocked nose

  • Itchy, red, or watery eyes

  • An itchy throat, mouth, nose, or ears

  • Headaches and sinus pressure

  • Fatigue

  • Asthma symptoms (worsening wheeze, breathlessness, or tight chest)

While hayfever isn't life-threatening, it can be incredibly disruptive — affecting sleep, concentration, and general wellbeing.

Top Tips to Cope with Hayfever

If you're struggling with symptoms, there are several ways you can reduce their impact:

1. Check the Pollen Forecast

The Met Office provides a daily pollen forecast during spring and summer. On high pollen days, try to limit time outdoors, especially in the early morning and late afternoon when pollen levels peak.

2. Shut It Out

  • Keep windows and doors closed, particularly in the mornings and evenings.

  • Use pollen filters in your car and vacuum cleaner if possible.

  • Dry clothes indoors to avoid them collecting pollen outside.

3. Wash it Off

  • Shower and change clothes after being outdoors to remove pollen from your skin and hair.

  • Consider using a saline nasal rinse or spray to clear allergens from your nasal passages.

4. Try Over-the-Counter Treatments

Pharmacies offer a range of treatments including:

  • Antihistamines – to relieve sneezing and itching (A lot of people swear by Fexofenadine, which used to be a prescription only medication in the UK)

  • Nasal sprays – to reduce inflammation

  • Eye drops – to soothe irritated eyes

Speak to a pharmacist for advice on what might work best for your symptoms. If over-the-counter options aren’t effective, consider speaking to a GP or urgent care practitioner.

5. Consider Allergy-Proofing Your Home

HEPA air filters and regular cleaning can reduce indoor allergens. Damp dusting rather than dry dusting helps avoid stirring up particles.

When to Seek Help

While hayfever is usually manageable, seek medical advice if:

  • Symptoms are severe or persistent despite treatment

  • Your asthma is worsening

  • You experience shortness of breath or wheezing

  • It’s affecting your ability to work, sleep, or go about daily life

At MET Medical, our urgent care practitioners can assess your symptoms, prescribe effective treatments, and help rule out other causes such as sinus infections or more serious allergies.

Hayfever can feel relentless, but with the right approach, it’s possible to get your symptoms under control. Whether it’s simple lifestyle tweaks or tailored medical support, there’s no need to suffer in silence.

If you’re in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, or the surrounding areas and need fast, compassionate help with your hayfever or other health concerns — we’re here for you.

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