If your eyes and nose are running more and more since spring sprung, it might be because of hay fever.
Some who never had hay fever before have noticed symptoms, while others who already experienced the inconvenient affliction have claimed it’s worse than in previous years.
We’re currently at the peak of the pollen season, so it’s understandable that hay fever will be rearing its snotty, itchy head.
But have you noticed an increase in the severity of your symptoms this year?
Why is my hay fever so bad this year?
There are a few reasons why your hay fever couple be particularly aggravated this year.
Here is a breakdown and some expert advice on a few reasons…
Hotter weather for longer
With the hot weather hitting us earlier than usual this year, this could have contributed to the symptoms.
Alan Reppert, senior meteorologist with AccuWeather, told Metro.co.uk: ‘We have seen temperatures starting off warmer than average for May and into June so far, and this has helped for the allergy season to start off quicker and stronger than we normally see.
‘Also, with rainfall being near average for that time period, it has also allowed the plants and trees to continue to grow quickly to only aid in the quicker than average and higher than average pollen levels across the country.
‘As temperatures look to be above average through much of the summer, that will only aid in higher pollen levels.
‘However, if there is a period of drier weather, that will help to slow plant growth down and bring a bit of a relief for any allergy sufferers.’
Different types of pollen
Dr Beverley Adams-Groom, Clarityn’s pollen consultant, told Metro.co.uk: ‘Some hay fever sufferers in London can be badly affected by the plane tree pollen season, which has an average of 12 high days.
‘Plane trees are planted on many of London’s streets and in parks and gardens.’
Scotland is one of the areas less affected by grass pollen, with hay fever hotspots located primarily in the south of England and the Midlands.
Where you live will also have an effect, with the temperature and plants of the region all making a difference.
Yolanda said: “In terms of the numbers of pollen grains in the air, what we’re seeing isn’t especially noteworthy compared to what we’ve had in previous years. However, the potency of these pollen grains could be more intense this year, and that comes down to the weather we’ve had in spring.
“A warm and wet May, coupled with a relatively warm spring, means there’s a chance that the pollen that has developed is particularly potent, even if the amounts aren’t dramatically different.”
You can check the daily pollen levels on the Met Office website.
Impending storms
With thunderstorms predicted to towards the end of the week and the weekend, those living with asthma or hay fever may experience worse symptoms that usual.
The weather phenomena – known as Thunderstorm Asthma – is caused by high winds drawing higher levels of pollens and pollution particles into the air.
When the pollen granules come into contact with water, the pollen breaks down into smaller particles which release into the air.
These particles are so small that when breathed in through the nose and mouth, they are able to penetrate the deeper and smaller airways in the lungs and trigger asthma symptoms.
Margaret Kelman, Head of Clinical Services at Allergy UK, told Metro.co.uk: ‘Most people with hay fever will feel their normal symptoms – sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, but these will be more extreme.
“However, hay fever can cause asthma symptoms to worsen, and thunderstorm conditions can cause even mild symptoms to become severe, such as difficulty breathing and chest tightening.
“For those affected by asthma and hay fever, we cannot stress enough how important it is to be prepared and to be diligent in taking allergy treatments and medications to manage symptoms.
“Of course, if you’re not able to do this and experience difficulty breathing, seek medical help without delay.”
What remedies are there for hay fever?
Antihistamines
Over-the-counter allergy medication is the first port of call for anyone who suffers with hay fever.
Branded options include Clarityn, Piriton, and Benadryl, or you can opt for unbranded loratadine or cetirizine hydrochloride which work just the same.
Barrier balms
If you know the pollen count is high, a barrier balm like Haymax can be rubbed under your nose to reduce pollen entering your body.
You can also apply barrier balms around the eye sockets if that’s where you seem to be affected.
Eye drops
Red eyes isn’t ideal, and high street pharmacies sell a number of drops which can relieve dryness, itching, and other associated side effects of hay fever.
Although they won’t rid you of it completely, they should reduce discomfort.
Nasal sprays
Brands like Beconase sell sprays you can use up your nose to reduce symptoms of hay fever.
They act like a barrier balm (just in a sprayable format) and stop pollen getting in, so hopefully no more sinus pain and runny noses.
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