Common Symptoms of Hayfever

• Nasal symptoms: Sneezing, runny or blocked nose, post-nasal drip
• Eye symptoms: Itchy, red, or watery eyes (allergic conjunctivitis)
• Skin symptoms: Itchy skin, hives, or worsening of eczema
• Throat and respiratory symptoms: Itchy throat, mouth, or ears, coughing, wheezing
• General symptoms: Fatigue, headaches, sinus pressure, disturbed sleep

When is Hayfever Especially Bad?

Hayfever symptoms vary depending on the season and the type of pollen:

• Spring (March-May) – Tree pollen (birch, oak, ash)
• Summer (May-July) – Grass pollen (peak season for hayfever in Ireland)
• Late Summer & Autumn (July-September) – Weed pollen (ragweed, nettle)

Check the latest pollen forecasts in Ireland:

• Met Éireann Pollen Forecast
• Air Quality Ireland Pollen Forecast

The Difference Between Hayfever and Other Allergies

• Hayfever is specifically triggered by pollen and is seasonal.
• Other allergies (such as dust mites, pet dander, or mould) can cause similar symptoms but occur year-round.
• Cold vs. Hayfever – Colds usually involve a fever and thick mucus, while hayfever symptoms are persistent and clear.

Antihistamines (Reduce allergic response)

• OTC options: Non-drowsy antihistamines (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine)
• Stronger OTC option: Fexofenadine, available without a prescription in Ireland
• Prescription-strength antihistamines: Available from your GP or our Online Doctor Service if required

Nasal Sprays (Reduce inflammation and congestion)

• Steroid nasal sprays (e.g., fluticasone, mometasone)
• Antihistamine nasal sprays (e.g., azelastine)
• Decongestant sprays (for short-term relief)

Eye Drops (Soothe itchy and watery eyes)

• Antihistamine eye drops (e.g., sodium cromoglicate)
• Lubricating eye drops (to relieve irritation)

Should You Take Hayfever Medication All Season or Only When Needed?

• For mild symptoms, antihistamines can be taken as required.
• For moderate to severe symptoms, daily use of preventative treatments (such as steroid nasal sprays) throughout the season is recommended for best control.
• Start early! Taking medication before peak pollen season can help reduce symptoms.

Avoid Pollen Exposure

• Check pollen forecasts – Limit outdoor exposure on high-pollen days.
• Stay indoors during peak times – Pollen levels are highest in the morning (7-10 AM) and evening (5-7 PM).
• Keep windows and doors closed – Use an air purifier indoors.
• Dry clothes indoors – Avoid hanging laundry outside where it can collect pollen.

Create a Pollen Barrier

• Apply petroleum jelly (Vaseline) around nostrils – Helps trap pollen before it enters your airways.
• Wear sunglasses – Protects your eyes from airborne pollen.
• Shower and change clothes after being outside – Removes pollen from skin and hair.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

• Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter – Helps remove allergens from indoor air.
• Vacuum and dust regularly – Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to reduce pollen, dust, and pet dander.
• Keep pets clean – Pollen can stick to their fur and be brought inside.

Boost Your Natural Defenses

• Eat foods rich in Vitamin C & Quercetin – Found in oranges, berries, apples, onions, and green tea, which may help reduce allergic responses.
• Stay hydrated – Helps thin mucus and reduce congestion.
• Use a saline nasal rinse – Clears pollen from nasal passages and eases congestion.