Why hay fever is worse this year – and what you can do about it

The History of Hay Fever: From Obscure Symptoms to Modern Understanding

Hay fever, a condition now affecting millions, has a fascinating history that began nearly 200 years ago. In the early 19th century, a London-based doctor named John Bostock noticed he experienced recurring symptoms such as an itchy throat, watery eyes, and a sore nose, particularly during warmer months. Intrigued, he identified 28 other patients with the same unexplained symptoms. Bostock coined the term "hay fever," though the cause remained a mystery for decades. It wasn’t until 1859 that Charles Blackley, a scientist suffering from the condition himself, correctly hypothesized that pollen was the culprit. Since then, our understanding has grown significantly, but hay fever remains a persistent issue for millions, with estimates suggesting around 13 million people in the UK alone suffer from it.

What Causes Hay Fever?

Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen, a fine powder produced by plants as part of their reproductive cycle. Pollen contains proteins that trigger an immune response in sensitive individuals. When pollen enters the body, the immune system reacts by releasing histamine and other chemicals, leading to symptoms like sneezing, itching, and congestion. While hay fever is most commonly caused by grass pollen, other types of pollen—of which there are around 30—can also trigger reactions. Pollen is spread by insects and the wind, and weather conditions play a significant role in its distribution. Rainy days can wash pollen from the air, offering relief to sufferers, while hot, humid, and windy days allow pollen to spread more easily. The pollen count is often highest in the early evening on sunny days, making this the peak time for symptoms.

The Hay Fever Seasons: A Calendar of Symptoms

Hay fever is not a single season but rather a series of pollen-related phases. The first phase begins in late March and lasts until mid-May, triggered by tree pollen. This affects about 25% of hay fever sufferers. The next phase, caused by grass pollen, typically runs from May to July and is the most widespread, impacting the majority of sufferers due to the simultaneous flowering of around 150 grass species. Finally, weed pollen, which can be released at any time, usually dominates from late June to September. Understanding these phases can help sufferers anticipate and prepare for their symptoms. For instance, those sensitive to tree pollen should be extra cautious in early spring, while grass pollen sufferers may face their worst symptoms in mid-summer.

Why Hay Fever Might Be Worse This Year

This year, hay fever sufferers may find their symptoms more severe, particularly during the tree pollen phase from March to mid-May. According to Dr. Beverley Adams-Groom, a senior palynologist at the University of Worcester, two factors are driving this trend. First, trees that produce allergenic pollen in the UK tend to have alternating high and low severity years, and this year is a high one. Second, favorable weather conditions last summer, particularly a warm and dry June, led to increased pollen production, especially in birch trees. This has resulted in a more intense tree pollen season, with central regions of the UK being particularly affected. Southern and eastern areas, however, may experience some relief due to cold spring winds that can reduce pollen release.

The Long-Term Outlook: How Climate Change Could Worsen Hay Fever

Looking ahead, hay fever may become even more challenging due to climate change. Research by the UK Health Security Agency suggests several ways in which global warming could exacerbate the problem. First, changes in temperature and rainfall patterns could extend the pollen season and increase pollen concentrations.Second, climate change may alter the potency of pollen, making individual grains more allergenic. Finally, warmer temperatures could shift the geographic distribution of allergenic plants, potentially introducing invasive species like ambrosia, or ragweed, which is known for producing highly allergenic pollen. A single ragweed plant can release a billion pollen grains in a season, posing a significant threat to hay fever sufferers. These changes are already being felt, as warmer summers—like the hot June of last year—contribute to higher pollen counts.

Managing Hay Fever: Tips and Treatments

While there is no cure for hay fever and prevention is not possible, there are ways to manage its symptoms. Simple but effective strategies include applying Vaseline around the nostrils to trap pollen, wearing wraparound sunglasses to protect the eyes, and staying indoors during peak pollen times. Medical treatments are also available, including antihistamine drops, tablets, and nasal sprays, which can be recommended by pharmacists. Beyond these measures, staying informed about pollen counts through forecasts can help sufferers plan their days and minimize exposure. Although hay fever remains a persistent challenge, a combination of lifestyle adjustments and medical interventions can help alleviate its impact.