Dr Rawal, Infinity Group Medical Director, recaps on re-occurrence of hay fever this spring/summer, and the best ways to treat it.

I know we covered this last year, but this late spring seems to have affected hayfever sufferers really badly and all of a sudden, so just a recap.

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic condition caused when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. Typical symptoms include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes, and watery eyes. Hay fever affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the most common allergic disorders. For example, evidence from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that around 24% of Australians were affected by allergic rhinitis in 2022 which has a significant public health impact in terms of lost work days, lost leisure days, medical appointments and medications.

The condition occurs when exposure to allergens triggers an immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated immune response, leading to the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals. These substances cause the characteristic symptoms of nasal irritation, congestion, and eye inflammation. Research has shown that hayfever can negatively affect quality of life by disrupting sleep, reducing concentration, and impairing work or school performance. It is also associated with other allergic conditions, particularly asthma, and may worsen asthma and eczema symptoms in susceptible individuals; known as atopy.

This year in particular I am seeing many people with hayfever symptoms then being hit by throat or chest infections, perhaps due to the strain on the immune system, although I cannot say for sure.

Evidence overall does suggest that hayfever is becoming more common and, in some regions, more severe. Researchers have linked this trend partly to climate change, which is increasing pollen production and extending pollen seasons. Recent European studies indicate that pollen seasons have lengthened by one to two weeks since the 1990s, resulting in longer periods of exposure for allergy sufferers. Effective management includes avoiding known allergens where possible, using antihistamines and corticosteroid nasal sprays, and considering allergen immunotherapy for persistent or severe symptoms. Interestingly, good management of any asthma and eczema also contributes to better hayfever management.