All you need to know about hay fever in the UK
Posted: 11th April 2024 | Posted by Costa
All you need to know about hay fever in the UK
As the weather battles to transition into spring, many of us are likely to start finding ourselves grappling with the unwelcome symptoms of hay fever. Unlike the common cold, hay fever stems from an allergic reaction to pollen, which varies in type and intensity throughout the year.
If you struggle with hay fever every year, you’re not alone. Alternatively, a recent change may have triggered a new experience for you. 49% of the UK report yearly had hay fever symptoms, making it one of the most common allergies. Understanding the different pollen seasons and their impact on hay fever is essential to help you find relief.
Common hayfever and pollen allergen signs
Hay fever and pollen allergies share some common symptoms with the common cold. However, there are some distinct signs that help distinguish between them. The key symptoms of hay fever include:
- Sneezing and coughing
- A runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, red or watery eyes (allergic conjunctivitis)
- Itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears
- Loss of smell
- Forehead pain
- Headaches
- Fatigue
During the peak season, hay fever symptoms can worsen, especially when it’s warm, humid, and windy and the pollen count is high. Unlike a cold, hay fever can last for several weeks or even months.
Pollen calendar
The UK hay fever season is extensive, beginning as early as January and lasting until autumn. The primary culprits behind hay fever are tree, grass, and weed pollens. These peak at different times of the year and are heavily influenced by geographical location and weather patterns.
The hay fever season usually starts with tree pollen and lasts from late March to mid-May. It affects around 25% of hay fever sufferers.
Grass pollen is the most common trigger and typically peaks twice, from mid-May to July. Its impact varies depending on weather conditions and can often intensify symptoms for many.
Finally, weed pollen completes the hay fever cycle from the end of June to September.
Regional variations and weather impact on hay fever
The timing and severity of hay fever symptoms can vary significantly depending on where you are in the UK. The north tend to have a later start and shorter pollen seasons due to generally lower pollen levels. Cities have lower pollen counts than out in the country, while seaside towns are less affected than inland areas.
The weather also plays a crucial role in pollen production and dispersal. Temperature fluctuations, rainfall, and wind not only determine the start and end of pollen seasons but also day-to-day pollen counts. Unpredictable spring weather and warm early summers can lead to higher pollen production, worsening hay fever symptoms for many.
3 common culprits of hay fever
Three types of tree pollen—birch, oak, and grass pollen —are commonly associated with allergies during the pollen season.
Birch pollen is a major source of pollen in the UK and is released between March and June. It is one of the most common triggers of hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) during the spring.
Oak trees also contribute significantly to the pollen count, especially in late spring and early summer. Although oak pollen is less allergenic than birch pollen, it can still cause symptoms in sensitive individuals.
Grass pollen, although not a tree, is also worth mentioning as it is one of the most common allergens affecting a large number of people during the summer months. Other sources of tree pollen, such as plane and ash trees, also contribute to the pollen count, but to a lesser extent in terms of widespread allergies, after birch and oak.
Testing for pollen allergies
The pollen seasons can be complicated, and every individual reacts differently to various types of pollen. This can make managing hay fever symptoms on your own seem like a difficult task.
However, identifying your specific triggers is a crucial next step towards finding relief.
By taking a test to determine the exact cause of your hay fever, a targeted management strategy can be developed. Why not take a test today? Our experts will be with you every step of the way, providing medication or suggesting lifestyle adjustments to offer you relief and help you understand your triggers.
Navigating through hay fever season can be challenging, but you’re not on this journey alone. Ready to take the next step toward clearer days? Register as a new patient with us today, and let’s embark on a path to better manage your hay fever and pollen allergens. Whether you opt for a comprehensive evaluation at our London-based allergy clinic or prefer the convenience of our home allergy test, we’re here to support you every step of the way.