Hayfever

Hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhino-conjunctivitis, is the name commonly given to allergic rhinitis caused by pollen or spores from certain seasonal plants. Hay fever (sometimes written hayfever) is a condition that affects many people. As with cases of common rhinitis, the primary hay fever symptom is a runny nose caused by internal irritation and inflammation. Other common symptoms of hay fever are itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, itching of the throat, palate and ears, and wheezing.

Hay fever commonly occurs in spring and summer, but sufferers can be affected different times of the year, depending on which pollen they are allergic to. If you would like further advice, our hay fever information section can be found further down the page.

What is hay fever?

Hay fever (also referred to as seasonal rhinitis and seasonal allergic rhino-conjunctivitis) is a type of allergic rhinitis; an inflammation of the inside of the nose due to an allergic reaction. It also affects the sinuses, eyes and throat.

What are the symptoms of hay fever?

The main hay fever symptoms are:

• a runny nose
• itchy, watery eyes
• sneezing
• itching of the throat, palate and ears
• wheezing.

What causes hay fever?

Hay fever occurs when an allergen, in this case pollen from plants, trees or grass, or spores from mould or fungi, is inhaled or enters the eyes. Instances of hay fever commonly take place in the spring and summer when there is a lot of pollen in the air, although the condition can affect sufferers at different times of the year, depending on which pollens or spores they are allergic to.

How common is hay fever?

Hay fever is thought to affect around 20% of the population. Individuals are more likely to suffer from the condition if there is a history of allergies, such as eczema or asthma within their family.

How do I treat hay fever?

Although there is no miracle cure for hay fever, there is a wide range of allergy treatments available to help relieve the symptoms. Products such as antihistamine tablets, allergy eye drops and nasal sprays are widely available without prescription, as are anti-inflammatory sprays, anti-allergy sprays and nasal decongestants for hay fever relief.