When is Hay Fever Season? – And How to Prepare for Pollen

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a widespread allergic condition caused by a hypersensitive reaction to airborne allergens, such as pollen and fungal spores (Sheikh et al., 2008). It affects millions of people worldwide, with symptoms including sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, nasal congestion, and persistent coughing. Although hay fever is commonly linked to spring, pollen seasons can extend from early spring to late autumn, depending on the type of pollen in the air.

It affects millions of people each year, triggering symptoms such as sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, nasal congestion, and coughing. While hay fever is often associated with spring, the pollen season can last from early spring through late autumn, depending on the type of pollen present in the air.

For individuals who suffer from hay fever symptoms, preparation is key. By understanding when hay fever season occurs, what triggers it, and how to manage exposure, people can reduce the impact of allergies on their daily lives. This article will provide insights into hay fever seasons, pollen types, environmental triggers, and the best hay fever treatments and remedies to keep symptoms under control.

When is Hay Fever Season?

Hay fever season varies depending on the type of pollen that triggers symptoms. In the UK, hay fever season typically starts in early spring and continues into late autumn, with different types of pollen peaking at different times:

• Tree Pollen – Early Spring (March to May)

• Grass Pollen – Late Spring to Early Summer (May to July)

• Weed Pollen – Late Summer to Autumn (August to October)

Each type of pollen affects people differently. Some individuals may experience allergies only during one season, while others may suffer from multiple pollen allergies throughout the year.

Tree Pollen (March - May)

Tree pollen is one of the earliest triggers of hay fever, with symptoms beginning as early as February or March, depending on the weather. Common trees that release allergenic pollen include:

• Birch

• Oak

• Hazel

• Alder

• Willow

Those who are sensitive to tree pollen may experience heightened symptoms on dry and windy days, when pollen is easily carried through the air.

Grass Pollen (May - July)

Grass pollen is the most common cause of seasonal hay fever and affects the highest number of people. It peaks between May and July and can be particularly intense in rural areas or parks.

• Ryegrass

• Timothy grass

• Meadow grass

Grass pollen levels tend to be highest in the morning (5-10 AM) and evening (4-7 PM). People who suffer from hay fever symptoms during this period may need stronger hay fever treatments, such as antihistamines or nasal sprays.

Weed Pollen (August - October)

Weed pollen appears later in the year, with peaks in late summer and early autumn. Some of the most common sources include:

• Ragweed

• Nettle

• Dock

• Mugwort

Since weed pollen season overlaps with mold spore season, individuals may experience a combination of hay fever symptoms and mold-related allergic reactions.

Factors That Trigger Hay Fever Symptoms

Several factors influence the severity of hay fever symptoms, including environmental conditions, climate change, and time of day.

1. Weather Conditions

• Warm, dry, and windy days increase pollen levels in the air.

• Cool, damp, and rainy days can help reduce pollen concentration, providing temporary relief.

• High humidity may worsen symptoms by trapping pollen particles close to the ground.

2. Geographic Location

• Urban areas have lower pollen counts but higher pollution levels, which can aggravate symptoms.

• Rural areas tend to have higher pollen concentrations due to the abundance of grass, trees, and weeds.

3. Time of Day

• Pollen counts are highest in the early morning and evening.

• Staying indoors during peak hours and keeping windows closed can help prevent exposure.

4. Climate Change and Longer Pollen Seasons

Research shows that rising CO₂ levels and increasing temperatures lead to higher pollen production and longer allergy seasons (Burbank, 2025). Warmer temperatures and increased CO₂ levels lead to:

• Higher pollen production from trees, grasses, and weeds.

• Longer allergy seasons, with pollen lingering in the air well into autumn.

Air Pollution Worsening Allergic Reactions – Studies indicate that urban pollution exacerbates hay fever symptoms by interacting with pollen and increasing its allergenic potential (Burbank, 2025).

Research has shown that seasonal allergies, particularly in children, are on the rise. A study from Bukhara State Medical Institute found that plant dust, mold spores, and environmental pollution are contributing to an increase in allergy cases among children, causing symptoms such as:

• Breathing difficulties

• Skin rashes

• Watery, itchy eyes

• Increased risk of asthma (Achilova & Sharipova, 2025)

Given these challenges, it is more important than ever to take proactive measures to manage hay fever symptoms.

Practical Tips to Prepare for Pollen Exposure

To minimise hay fever symptoms, consider the following preventive measures:

• Monitor Pollen Forecasts – Use pollen-tracking websites or apps to check daily pollen levels.

• Stay Indoors During High Pollen Times – Try to limit outdoor activities in the early morning and late evening.

• Wear Sunglasses and a Hat – This helps protect the eyes and prevents pollen from settling in your hair.

• Keep Windows Closed – Keep windows shut at home and in the car to prevent pollen from entering.

• Use Air Purifiers – HEPA filters can help remove pollen from indoor air.

• Shower and Change Clothes After Outdoor Activities – This removes pollen from skin and clothing, reducing exposure.

Medications and Treatments for Hay Fever

Several hay fever treatments and remedies are available to help manage symptoms effectively.

1. Antihistamines

Antihistamines block the body’s allergic response and help relieve symptoms like sneezing, itching, and congestion. Common over-the-counter options include:

• Loratadine

• Cetirizine

• Fexofenadine

These are often used as first-line hay fever relief and work best when taken before symptoms start. Newer-generation antihistamines like loratadine and fexofenadine are preferred due to their longer-lasting effects and reduced sedative properties.

2. Nasal Sprays

Intranasal corticosteroids are the most effective treatment for moderate to severe hay fever, especially for symptoms like nasal congestion and postnasal drip. They help by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages and should ideally be used before peak pollen season for maximum benefit (Durham, 1998). Common steroid nasal sprays include:

• Fluticasone (Flonase)

• Mometasone (Nasonex)

3. Decongestants

Decongestants like pseudoephedrine help relieve nasal congestion by shrinking swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages. However, they should only be used short-term to avoid dependency.

4. When to See a Doctor

If over-the-counter treatments are not effective, an allergy specialist may recommend:

• Allergy testing to identify specific triggers.

• Immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets) for long-term relief.

Kenalog Hay Fever Injection & Immune Therapies: What You Need to Know

For many, conventional hay fever treatments, like antihistamines and nasal sprays, provide sufficient relief. However, around one in ten people continue to struggle with persistent symptoms. This leads some to explore alternative options, such as the Kenalog hay fever injection or immune therapies (desensitisation treatments).

Kenalog Hay Fever Injection

Kenalog is a steroid injection (triamcinolone) administered into the muscle, designed to suppress the body’s allergic response to pollen. Although it can offer relief for three to eight weeks, and some people are keen to consider it as an option for severe symptoms, Kenalog is no longer approved by the NHS due to concerns over its safety profile.

Potential side effects include:

• High blood pressure

• Muscle weakness & bone loss

• Skin rashes & dizziness

• Breathing difficulties

  
  

For these reasons, we do not recommend Kenalog injections for hay fever management, even though they may still be offered by some private clinics.

Immune Therapies (Desensitisation Treatment)

For those seeking long-term relief, immunotherapy helps retrain the immune system to become less reactive to allergens. There are two main types:

• Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT) – Involves small injections of pollen under the skin to build tolerance over time.

• Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) – Involves daily tablets placed under the tongue, typically starting months before pollen season and continuing for up to three years.

While immunotherapy requires long-term commitment, it can significantly reduce symptoms and reliance on medication.

Most hay fever sufferers can effectively manage their symptoms with daily nasal sprays, antihistamines, and pollen avoidance strategies. However, if you’re travelling abroad during hay fever season, consider additional precautions.

Hay fever season often coincides with holiday travel. While a change in climate may bring relief, new destinations introduce new health risks—especially infectious diseases. That’s where Health Klinix comes in.

Don’t Let Hay Fever or Travel Risks Hold You Back

• Stay ahead of hay fever with the right treatments and preventative strategies.

• Protect your health abroad with our comprehensive travel vaccination services.

• Get expert advice from our friendly, knowledgeable team.

Take Action Today

• Reduce pollen exposure and find the right hay fever remedies.

• Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.

• Ensure a worry-free trip by getting the necessary vaccinations before you travel.

We’re here to help! Simply call us at 02476 016519 or book online, and we’ll take care of your travel vaccinations. Our expert team is ready to assist you.

Sources and References:

1. Achilova, D.N., & Sharipova, M.O. (2025). Seasonal Allergy in Children: Causes and Modern Treatment Methods.  Retrieved from https://webofjournals.com/index.php/5/article/view/3505/3463.

2. Burbank, A. J. (2025). Climate Change and the Future of Allergies and Asthma. Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, 25:20. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-025-01201-0.

3. Sheikh, A., Panesar, S.S., & Salvilla, S. (2008). Hay fever in adolescents and adults. Clinical Evidence. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2907832/pdf/2009-0509.pdf

4. Durham, S. (1998). Summer hay fever. BMJ, 316(7134), 843. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.316.7134.843

Written by:

James Hadland, MPhil candidate, University of Cambridge

Approved by:

Dr Ravi Gowda, Consultant Physician, MBBS, MRCP(UK), DTM&H, MRCGP, DCH, DRCOG, DFFP