Hay fever in May: what should you know?

Hay fever is an allergic response to pollen. It can cause sneezing, a blocked or runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, throat irritation and cough. Symptoms often follow outdoor exposure and may be stronger on days when pollen is widely dispersed. Hay fever itself is not an infection, so it does not spread to other people. Nasal swelling can also make sleep, concentration and exercise less comfortable.

Keep windows closed when pollen is noticeable, particularly in the room where you sleep. After spending time outdoors, change clothes, rinse your face and shower or wash your hair before bed. Sunglasses can reduce pollen reaching the eyes. A pharmacist or clinician can help you choose a suitable nasal spray, eye treatment or antihistamine, especially if you have asthma, take other medicines, or are pregnant. Use nasal sprays exactly as directed; technique affects where the medicine reaches.

Arrange an assessment if symptoms persist despite sensible treatment, disturb sleep regularly, or keep returning with facial pressure or thick nasal discharge. Seek urgent help for wheezing, marked breathlessness, swelling of the lips or tongue, faintness, or difficulty swallowing. These features need prompt assessment and should not be attributed to hay fever alone.

Could another condition be contributing to my blocked nose or cough? Which treatment suits my symptoms and existing medicines? Should my asthma plan change during pollen season?