Spring pollen can trigger sneezing, a blocked or runny nose and itchy, watery eyes. When symptoms keep returning, they can affect sleep, concentration, work and school. Mild hay fever often responds to self-care and pharmacist advice. Persistent or troublesome symptoms are worth discussing with a GP.
Key Takeaways
- Hay fever is an allergic reaction, not an infection
- Spring pollen can trigger sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes
- Antihistamines and suitable nasal sprays may help manage symptoms
- Persistent or disruptive symptoms may need GP assessment
- Wheezing or breathing difficulty should not be assumed to be ordinary hay fever
What Is Hay Fever and Why Is It Worse in Spring?
Hay fever, also called allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction in the nose. It happens when the immune system reacts to allergens such as pollen. Despite the name, it does not cause a fever.
In spring, grass, tree and weed pollen can trigger symptoms. Exposure varies with location, wind and weather. Some people also react to dust mites, mould or animal dander, which can cause symptoms all year.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Hay Fever?
Hay fever commonly causes sneezing, a runny or blocked nose and itchy eyes. Symptoms vary in strength from person to person. Common signs include:
- Repeated sneezing
- An itchy, runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, red or watery eyes
- An itchy throat or itchy roof of the mouth
- Postnasal drip, or the need to clear your throat
- Poor sleep and tiredness when symptoms are troublesome
Hay fever can disturb sleep and lead to daytime tiredness. Headaches or coughing may have other causes, so persistent or unusual symptoms should be assessed rather than automatically attributed to hay fever.
Hay Fever or a Cold: How Can You Tell the Difference?
Hay fever and colds share some symptoms, so telling them apart can be tricky. The table below is a guide only, not a diagnostic test.
| Feature | Hay fever | Common cold |
| Itchy eyes or nose | Common | Less typical |
| Sneezing and runny nose | Common | Common |
| Fever | Not caused by hay fever | Sometimes occurs |
| Duration | Can continue while exposed to allergens | Usually improves within 7–10 days |
| Cause | Pollen or other allergens | Viral infection |
If you are unsure, a pharmacist or GP can help work out the likely cause.
What Helps Relieve Hay Fever Symptoms?
The right relief depends on your symptoms, how often they occur and your medical circumstances. Healthdirect Australia’s guidance on hay fever treatment outlines the main options.
Antihistamines can help relieve sneezing, itching, a runny nose and itchy eyes. They are available as tablets, nasal sprays and eye drops. Less-sedating options are often preferred, although some people may still experience drowsiness.
Corticosteroid nasal sprays reduce inflammation inside the nose and can be particularly useful for persistent nasal congestion. They generally work best when used regularly as directed and may take several days to provide noticeable benefit. Correct spray technique is important, so ask a pharmacist or GP if you are unsure how to use one.
Saline sprays or rinses and suitable eye drops can add extra relief. A pharmacist can advise on products.
Decongestant nasal sprays are not recommended for regular hay fever management. Although they may temporarily unblock the nose, using them for more than a few days can worsen congestion. Ask a pharmacist before using one.
The most suitable treatment depends on your symptoms, age, pregnancy status, medical history and other medicines you take.
How Can You Reduce Pollen Exposure During Spring?
Cutting down exposure can make symptoms easier to manage. Practical steps include:
- Checking pollen forecasts before outdoor activities
- Limiting time outside when pollen is high, especially on windy days
- Closing windows when practical during high-pollen periods
- Showering and changing clothes after time outdoors
- Avoiding mowing if grass pollen is a trigger
- Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes
For people around Huntlee and North Rothbury who garden, walk or work outdoors, these habits are worth building into spring routines.
Can Children Get Hay Fever?
Yes. Children can have sneezing, itchy eyes, a blocked nose and recurring seasonal symptoms. Symptoms that affect sleep, concentration or school may need assessment.
Age matters when choosing medicines, especially antihistamines and nasal sprays. Ask a pharmacist or GP before using an unfamiliar product. Parents can discuss their child’s symptoms through Huntlee Healthcare’s children’s health services.
When Should You See a GP for Hay Fever?
Mild, occasional hay fever can often be managed with pharmacist advice. A GP visit may help when symptoms persist, are hard to control or affect daily life. Consider an appointment if:
- Symptoms persist, frequently return or remain difficult to control
- Sleep is regularly interrupted
- Symptoms affect school, work or exercise
- Pharmacy treatments are not giving enough relief
- You are unsure what is causing your symptoms
- You have significant nasal blockage or ongoing sinus symptoms
- A child is struggling with symptoms
A GP can review your symptoms, likely triggers, medicines you have already tried and your medical history. Allergy testing or specialist referral may be considered when clinically appropriate, but not everyone needs testing.
If hay fever symptoms remain difficult to control or regularly affect your sleep, a GP consultation through Huntlee Healthcare’s General Medicine service can help assess your symptoms and discuss suitable.
Can Hay Fever Affect Asthma?
Hay fever and asthma often occur together, and pollen can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. Wheezing, chest tightness, persistent coughing or breathlessness should not be assumed to be ordinary hay fever. Seek prompt medical advice for new or worsening breathing symptoms.
In NSW, October to December is the higher-risk period for thunderstorm asthma. Although uncommon, it can develop rapidly when high pollen levels combine with particular thunderstorm conditions. People with asthma should follow their Asthma Action Plan and use their prescribed reliever as directed.
Call Triple Zero (000) immediately for severe breathing difficulty, difficulty speaking in full sentences, or rapidly worsening asthma symptoms. Follow appropriate asthma first aid while waiting for an ambulance.
Managing Hay Fever Through Spring
Managing hay fever involves recognising your triggers, reducing pollen exposure where practical and choosing suitable symptom relief. If symptoms persist or interfere with daily life, a GP can help review your treatment options.
If recurring spring allergies are becoming difficult to manage, you can arrange a GP appointment with Huntlee Healthcare to talk through your concerns.
FAQs
How long does hay fever usually last?
Symptoms can continue while you are exposed to the allergen. Seasonal hay fever tends to return during pollen periods, while year-round allergic rhinitis can cause symptoms across the year.
Is hay fever contagious?
No. Hay fever is an allergic reaction, not an infection, so it cannot spread from person to person.
Can hay fever cause a sore throat or cough?
Postnasal drip may irritate the throat and cause coughing. Persistent coughing should be assessed, while wheezing or breathlessness needs prompt medical attention. Severe breathing difficulty is an emergency.
Can hay fever be permanently cured?
There is no guaranteed permanent cure for hay fever. Medicines can control symptoms, while specialist-directed allergen immunotherapy may provide longer-term improvement for some people with confirmed allergies.
References and further reading
Healthdirect Australia: Hay fever
ASCIA: Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne: Hay fever
NSW Health: Thunderstorm asthma