As the sunshine returns, so does the pollen—and for millions, that means the dreaded arrival of hay fever season. While itchy eyes, sneezing, and nasal congestion are all too familiar to sufferers, experts say many people make their symptoms worse without realising it.
From incorrect medication use to risky injections and misleading pollen myths, here’s what you really need to know to survive hay fever season comfortably—and safely.
🌼 What Is Hay Fever, Really?
Hay fever—medically known as seasonal allergic rhinitis—is a pollen allergy. It occurs when the immune system overreacts, producing high levels of IgE antibodies in response to harmless particles like pollen.
This triggers the release of chemicals such as histamine, resulting in sneezing, congestion, and itchy, watery eyes.
🖼️ Suggested image: An infographic showing how hay fever affects the immune system (pollen > Ige> histamine > symptoms).
⚠️ Common Mistakes That Worsen Hay Fever Symptoms
1. Using Nasal Decongestants Too Long
While it might seem like a good idea to grab a decongestant for a blocked nose, experts warn against it. Medications containing oxymetazoline or phenylephrine can help for a couple of days, but used longer than 3–5 days, they cause “rebound congestion.”
“You end up permanently congested unless you keep using it,” explains Professor Michael Rudenko, an allergy consultant in London.
✅ Better option: Use saline sprays like Sterimar or Sinusalt to rinse pollen out of your nose. Antihistamine nasal sprays are also effective and don’t cause rebound effects.
2. Choosing the Wrong Antihistamine
Not all antihistamines are created equal. Older ones like Piriton (chlorphenamine) can cause drowsiness and wear off quickly. Newer options such as cetirizine (Zirtek) and loratadine (Clarityn) offer long-lasting relief without making you sleepy.
“People often grab the first antihistamine they see, but effectiveness varies,” says Professor Adam Fox.
🖼️ Suggested image: Comparison chart of old vs. new antihistamines with pros and cons.
3. Incorrect Nasal Spray Technique
Dr Helen Evans-Howells, a GP and allergy specialist, says many people use nasal sprays the wrong way.
“Don’t tilt your head back. Instead, lean forward slightly and aim the spray toward your ear. This helps the medicine reach the nasal lining.”
Bonus Tip: Using nasal spray properly can even reduce itchy eyes due to a neural connection between the nose and eyes.
4. Stopping Treatment Too Soon
Hay fever symptoms might ease temporarily, but the pollen hasn’t gone anywhere. Keep using antihistamines and sprays daily until the season ends.
A 2021 Allergy UK survey found that 42% of sufferers stop treatment too early, leading to flare-ups.
5. Ignoring Practical Prevention Steps
Medication alone won’t cut it. You also need to avoid exposure:
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Check pollen forecasts on Met Office
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Stay indoors during peak pollen times
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Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors
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Wash pollen off your skin and hair after being outside
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Dry clothes indoors to prevent them becoming pollen traps
🖼️ Suggested image: Visual checklist of practical pollen-avoidance steps.
🌳 Misconceptions About Pollen
Seeing floating white fluff from poplar trees? That’s not likely to be your problem.
“Poplar pollen is sticky and insect-carried. Hay fever is mostly caused by microscopic grass and tree pollen that you can’t see,” explains Professor Rudenko.
Tracking the wrong pollen type can lead to poor avoidance strategies.
😓 When It’s Not Just Hay Fever
Hay fever doesn’t just cause sneezing. It can also result in:
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Headaches (from sinus pressure)
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Anosmia (loss of smell or taste)
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Facial pain
If you have symptoms like nosebleeds, a blocked nose on one side, vision changes, or total smell loss, see your GP—these could indicate more serious issues.
Older adults are also less likely to develop hay fever. If symptoms arise for the first time in your 60s or later, they could be caused by:
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Non-allergic rhinitis (triggered by medications like ibuprofen)
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Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)
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Dry eye syndrome
🚫 Say No to ‘Hay Fever Injections’
Social media is full of ads promising that a single injection can cure your hay fever for the entire season. These injections usually contain Kenalog, a potent steroid.
While tempting, they come with serious risks, including:
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Cataracts
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Mood disorders
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Joint damage
Always consult a qualified allergy specialist before considering steroid treatments.
🖼️ Suggested image: “Say No to Hay Fever Injections” caution graphic.
✅ Takeaway: Hay Fever Relief Is Possible
Hay fever can be miserable, but the good news is, it’s manageable—with the right information. Avoid common pitfalls, use your medications correctly, and make lifestyle tweaks to reduce exposure.
And remember: if in doubt, seek professional help, not quick fixes.
Suggested antihistamine from Amazon.com
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