Getting a headstart on hay fever

Eyes running? Can't stop sneezing? It may only be early spring, but your sniffles could be the start of seasonal allergies

Did you know?

According to studies, more male trees, which produce more pollen than their female counterparts, are planted in urban areas, as they don’t shed seeds and fruit like female trees.

If you’re already experiencing hay fever symptoms, you are not alone. Thanks to climate change, the average temperature has risen at least 1 ℃ over the past century, which means longer plant growing times. The result?

More allergens are in the air, says a leading specialist Dr Jean Emberlin. ‘Plus, pollution is a massive problem, particularly with hay fever.’ And that’s not all. ‘There has been a suggestion that COVID-19 might have “reset” some people’s immune system to make them more susceptible to hay fever,’ says an airborne allergens expert Max Wiseberg.

While it may be a stark reminder that we all need to do our bit for the environment, small lifestyle changes can make a huge difference to your symptoms. Keep reading to escape the ill effects of the pesky pollen count this year – and beyond.

RELIEVE YOUR SYMPTOMS

Enjoy a season free from sneezing and itching with the help of our expert advice.

Be air aware