Hay Fever: symptoms, self-care and when to get help
Checked against current published health guidance — last reviewed 2026-09-23. See how we check.
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) typically causes sneezing, an itchy or runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes when exposed to pollen, and usually responds well to antihistamines and simple avoidance measures. See a pharmacist or GP if symptoms are severe, disrupting sleep or daily life, or not responding to over-the-counter treatment.
Overview
Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen — from trees, grass, or weeds depending on the season — that irritates the nose, eyes, throat, and sinuses. Symptoms often follow a seasonal pattern and can also worsen asthma in people who have it.
It's very common and, while not dangerous, can significantly affect sleep, concentration, and daily comfort during pollen season.
What may help
- Antihistamines (tablets or nasal sprays) from a pharmacy, taken regularly during pollen season
- Wraparound sunglasses and closing windows on high-pollen days
- Rinse pollen off skin and hair, and change clothes after being outside
- A pharmacist can also advise on eye drops or steroid nasal sprays for more troublesome symptoms
When to see a pharmacist or GP
- Symptoms not controlled by over-the-counter antihistamines
- Hay fever that's significantly disrupting sleep, work, or school
- You also have asthma and hay fever seems to be making it harder to control
- Symptoms present most of the year rather than seasonally, which may point to a different cause
When it could be an emergency
- Wheezing, chest tightness, or breathing difficulty (especially with a history of asthma)
- Facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, or signs of a severe allergic reaction
- Symptoms that are unusual for hay fever, such as facial pain or a persistent one-sided nasal discharge
If any of these apply, don't wait — call your local emergency number (see emergency numbers by country, or Red Flags in the app), or go straight to your nearest emergency department.
Want more detail, tailored to your own situation?
Look up "Hay Fever" in the appCommon questions
What's the difference between hay fever and a cold?
Hay fever tends to cause itchy eyes and a clear, watery nasal discharge without a fever, and follows a seasonal pattern tied to pollen; a cold usually comes with a fever, thicker discharge, and settles within one to two weeks regardless of season.
Can hay fever start in adulthood?
Yes — while it often begins in childhood or the teens, it can develop for the first time at any age.
Do all antihistamines cause drowsiness?
No — many modern, "non-drowsy" antihistamines are available; a pharmacist can recommend one suited to you, including for use while driving or working.
When is hay fever season?
In the UK, tree pollen is usually highest from late March to mid-May, grass pollen from mid-May to July, and weed pollen from late June to September. Seasons vary in other countries.
Can hay fever make asthma worse?
Yes. Pollen can trigger asthma symptoms. If you have asthma, keep using your preventer inhaler and speak to your GP or asthma nurse if symptoms get worse.
Official sources
Related topics
Asthma
Symptoms, inhaler use, and asthma attack warning signs.
Conjunctivitis (Red or Sticky Eye)
Causes, hygiene tips, and when to get checked.
Eczema
Triggers, skincare routine, and when to seek help.
Sinusitis
Blocked, painful sinuses and when to get help.
General information only, last checked 2026-09-23 — not medical advice and not a diagnosis. This page doesn't cover every cause or every person's situation; for anything specific to you or someone in your care, speak to a pharmacist, GP, or other qualified professional. See how we check. Be Health Wise is part of the Be Wise family of apps.