Hay Fever

Responsible for ruined exams and the lives of millions in glorious weather.

Allergy to grass pollen causes symptoms from late May to July/August. The pollens of various grasses and weeds are in high concentrations in the air, the most common being timothy, cocksfoot or rye grass and nettle. Some people start having symptoms in February, March or April if they react to tree pollens such as Hazel, Willow, Alder, Silver Birch, Chestnut, Oak or London Plain. A minority also suffer with seasonal asthma and require inhalers to control it. The incidence of allergic rhinitis from all causes has seen a three-fold increase over the last 20 years.

The impact of pollen allergy on teenage students' quality of life and exam performance seems to be much greater than previously thought. A study in 2007 found that students who reported they are suffering with hay fever, were 40% more likely to drop a grade between their mock and GCSE exams. The frequently reported tiredness during the pollen season may be partly caused by the congestion which affects their quality of sleep.

Most hay fever sufferers manage to control their symptoms with antihistamines and or steroid nasal sprays. Modern antihistamines tend to cause less drowsiness and are remarkably safe. Those who find medications ineffective often look for preventative methods.

Hay fever is a very common allergy in the UK, usually reaching its peak during adolescence. Some people with pollen allergy might also have a predisposition toward other allergies such as house dust mites, animal dander or moulds.