Hay fever help as the 2026 pollen season lands

Many people think of hay fever as a summer problem – but trees such as birch can cause misery for many at the start of spring.

People are now urged to start treating the symptoms of hay fever (medically termed Allergic rhinitis) as pollen levels rise.

Hay fever is an allergic reaction to the fine powder (pollen) that plants produce, usually when it comes into contact with mouths, noses, eyes and throats.

Pollen from trees that are commonly planted in the UK such as alder, birch and hazel, is now being released into the air.

When someone with hay fever come into contact with pollen (the allergen), they will usually experience a range of symptoms such as a runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing.

Unmanaged hay fever symptoms can also give rise to the development of asthma or can also cause asthma to worsen which may lead to a serious attack, hospitalisation and, in some rare cases, even death.

Amena Warner, Head of Clinical Services at Allergy UK, says: “Hay fever can cause misery, and it is associated with other allergic conditions such as asthma which can complicate management and increase health risks.

“It’s important to control hay fever symptoms for all the above reasons. If you experience asthma symptoms of a tight chest, wheeziness and difficulty breathing, then urgent medical help should be sought.

“There is also a knock-on effect. Hay fever symptoms can affect sleep quality – and sustained periods of poor sleep can increase risks of other illnesses.”

Allergy UK has a five-point action plan to help you get through pollen season:

  • Monitor pollen forecasts – the Met Office is likely to launch its 2026 pollen forecast in the next week or so – and limit outdoor activities on high pollen days. Pollen counts tend to be higher in the early morning and evening
  • Consider wearing a mask across your mouth and nose, use a barrier balm, wear wraparound sunglasses and a hat with a large brim to shield your eyes, face and hair from pollen when outdoors
  • Once inside, shower, wash your hair and change your clothes to remove pollen.
  • Keep windows shut at home and in the car
  • Avoid drying clothes/ linen outside as pollen can be brought inside on the clothes.

For advice and information about managing hay fever and tree pollen allergies, visit www.allergyuk.org.