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Hay Fever: Recognising Symptoms and Triggers
Key Information
- What Is It? Hay fever is an allergic reaction to particles in the air, not a cold or viral infection.
- The Goal: Understanding when and where your symptoms occur helps identify your triggers.
Common Symptoms
If you have hay fever, you may experience:
- Frequent sneezing (often in bursts)
- A runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, red, or watery eyes
- Itching in the throat, mouth, nose, or ears
- Headaches or facial pressure
- Feeling unusually tired
Is it a Cold or Hay Fever?
The key difference is how long the symptoms last and when they occur.
- A Standard Cold:
- Duration: Usually resolves within 1–2 weeks
- Timing: Can happen at any time of year
- Hay Fever:
- Duration: Can last for weeks or months
- Timing: Often follows seasonal patterns (pollen seasons)
Identifying Your Triggers
Your symptom pattern usually points towards the trigger.
Seasonal Triggers (Late March to September)
If symptoms worsen outdoors on warm, dry, sunny, or windy days, pollen is the most likely cause.
Year-Round Triggers (Indoor Allergies)
If symptoms occur all year and are worse indoors, possible triggers include:
- House Dust Mites: Found in bedding, carpets, and dust.
- Mould Spores: Common in damp environments such as bathrooms and kitchens.
- Pet Dander: Small particles from pets like cats and dogs.
Note: If the trigger is unclear, allergy testing may be recommended.
What Happens Next?
If over-the-counter treatments are not controlling your symptoms, please contact us for further support.
Further Information
Managing Hay Fever: Practical Steps and Treatments
For more detailed advice, including pollen forecasts and self-care tips, please visit the NHS website.
Last reviewed: 02 April 2026
Next review due: 02 April 2029
Providing NHS Services
Telephone: 01727 853107