According to the latest research, the hay fever season is getting longer and more intense due to global environmental changes.
A recent study by 65 scientists found that the pollen season now lasts one to two weeks longer than in the 1990s. In Europe, trees such as birch, alder and olive trees are pollinating earlier than in the period 1991-2000.
However, warm and dry weather creates ideal conditions in which pollen can multiply and spread quickly, significantly increasing the severity of symptoms.
Hay fever causes itchy eyes, sneezing and headaches, which can lead to poor sleep and missed work days. For teens, severe symptoms during exam seasons can result in an entire academic grade being lowered.
High pollen levels can trigger dangerous asthma attacks and worsen other respiratory conditions.
“We are seeing an extended season – an earlier start of pollination in both the north and south [of Europe],” says Professor Joacim Rocklov, from the University of Heidelberg, one of the authors of the article.
Experts recommended using a combination of over-the-counter medications to control symptoms. This includes long-acting, non-drowsy antihistamines, steroid nasal sprays to reduce inflammation, and eye drops that specifically target itching and redness.
“Although for some their symptoms may be mild, for many hay fever symptoms impact their quality of life,” says Anne Biggs, deputy head of clinical services at Allergy UK.
“It can lead to missed days at work, poor sleep and for some teenagers and young people, active hay fever symptoms can lead to them losing an academic grade in their exams.”
“If people are allergic to pollen, it can inflame their airways and cause frightening breathing problems, leading to life-threatening asthma attacks and COPD flare-ups,” says Dr Samantha Walker, director of research and innovation at Asthma and Lung UK.
In terms of prevention, it is recommended to shower and change after being outdoors to remove pollen from skin and hair.
It is also relevant to vacuum regularly, use pollen filters in cars and keep windows closed. Applying petroleum jelly around the nostrils helps trap pollen, as does wearing sunglasses.
Stay away from freshly cut grass, avoid drying clothes outside, and wipe down pets after being outside.
Ninety percent of people with hay fever can be controlled with over-the-counter medications,” says pharmacist Ashley Cohen.
Although 90% of patients can manage with pharmacy medications, those with debilitating symptoms may need a referral from their GP.
For the most severe cases, specialists may offer immunotherapy, which involves injecting small amounts of pollen over time to desensitize the immune system.
Severe hay fever has a real impact on quality of life and overall productivity.
The goal of immunotherapy is to gradually build the body’s tolerance to the allergen so that the immune system no longer overreacts during prolonged exposure to pollen.
