Why hay fever feels worse some years, and when to act

Is your hay fever worse this year?

It’s not just you! Studies show that hay fever seasons are starting earlier and causing worse symptoms some years due to fluctuations in the Earth’s temperature, changing climate patterns, and higher carbon dioxide levels.

These factors can have a major impact on the flowering season, wind, and the amount of moisture in the air. Some research even suggests that today’s hayfever sufferers now deal with symptoms for up to two weeks longer than people did in 1900.

Your own immune function can also play a part. If you’re missing out on some nutrients or you’ve been under stress for a while, your sensitivities may be heightened. 

Here’s a quick overview of why you might be feeling more stuffy and sneezy, and what you can do about it. 

What causes hayfever (allergic rhinitis) to begin with

Hayfever - also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis - is a common condition affecting around one in five Kiwis. It occurs when your body thinks that certain airborne substances are actually harmful, so it launches an attack. Unfortunately, this causes symptoms such as:

• Itchy, runny nose

• Itchy, watery eyes

• Sneezing

• Stuffy nose  (congestion)

• Stuffy sinuses

• Excess mucus in the nose and throat (a.k.a postnasal drip)

Airborne substances that trigger symptoms are referred to as allergens. Allergens typically include pollen, dust mites, mould, animal dander (from feathers or fur), and other irritants.

Why hayfever changes from year to year

Seasonal changes 

In New Zealand, hayfever season generally begins in late winter and peaks in spring, often continuing through summer. Which means you may experience symptoms from August/September right up until March.
But we know that seasons can vary wildly from one year to the next, which scientists believe is due to climate change. We’re now experiencing warmer, wetter winters (and summers!) and more intense weather overall. 

These changes directly affect pollen count. Pollen is the fine particles released by plants and trees during their reproduction process. The release begins in early spring and travels on the wind. If you’re affected by hayfever, inhaling pollen results in an allergic reaction. 

A very wet spring could mean less pollen, while a dry and breezy spring could have you sniffling and sneezing for most of the day.

Poor immune function

Your immune system relies on specific nutrients and adequate rest to function at its best. When your diet falls short, or stress and fatigue build up, your body may become more reactive to allergens like pollen. Stress and worry may also cause your allergy symptoms to hang around for longer. 

How to get ready for hayfever season 

Step one: prepare for what’s ahead

Check the forecast

While it’s not always possible to predict specific daily weather events, meteorologists are now fairly accurate at identifying general trends for seasons ahead. Checking the long-range forecasts in advance can help you prepare an action plan. 

Understanding your personal triggers is also helpful. Some people are more sensitive to grass and weed pollen, while others react more to animal dander (fur and feathers). Where possible, you can plan ways to minimize these triggers during the peak season. 

Prime your system 

It may sound counterintuitive, but being in nature as often as possible may help train your immune system to distinguish between what’s harmful and what’s not. This may help to reduce the severity of symptoms when the season sets in. 

NOTE: If you have severe allergies, check with your healthcare professional before interacting with potential triggers. 

Support your immune health

Good nutrition is key to supporting a healthy immune response. A wholesome diet with plenty of fresh fruit and veg should be a priority. Try to minimize your intake of processed, packaged foods as these can make your symptoms worse. 

Nutrients that support immune function during the more sensitive periods include:  

• Quercetin: a plant compound that may support immune responses caused by allergens. 

• Vitamin C: a natural antioxidant and vitamin that supports general immune health.

• Probiotics: beneficial bacteria that support the gut microbiome, which is where most of your immune system resides. 

Step two: Minimize your triggers

• Create a barrier: Applying a little Vaseline around the inside of your nostrils can help ‘catch’ pollen and reduce the amount that enters your nose.
  
  

• Protect your eyes: Wraparound sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat can help keep pollen out of your eyes and hair while outdoors.
  
  

• Wash and rinse: Use a saline nasal rinse or spray to flush trapped pollen from your nasal passages. Change your clothes and take a shower after being outdoors to get rid of any pollen.
  
  

• Shut it out: Close windows and doors at home and in the car when pollen count is high. Dust and vacuum indoors regularly.
  
  

Step three: Use relief when needed  

If symptoms do strike, it’s a good idea to have relief on hand. Here’s what to put in your hayfever kit. 

Antihistamines
Antihistamines such as Claratyne and Telfast are general first-line options for hayfever. They work by blocking histamine, the chemical your body releases during an allergic reaction. This can help reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose. They can be taken once a day

Nasal sprays and rinses

Nasal sprays support the airways and nasal lining, helping to reduce stuffiness and sneezing.

Nasal rinses such as NeilMed and sprays such as FESS contain saline (salt water) that helps to flush pollen and mucus out of the nasal passages.

Eye relief

Antihistamine eye drops support the surface of the eyes, helping to relieve itching and redness.

Lubricating eye drops such as Optrex Clear Eyes can help rinse pollen and dust from the eyes and calm redness.

Nasal strips

Breathe Right nasal strips are worn across the nose to support airflow and the comfort of the nasal passages. Great for supporting sleep when you’re congested! 

Drop into Bargain Chemist or shop online to check out the whole range of hayfever support products!

Safety notes: Always read the label on a product and use as directed. You should not take two antihistamines together or two steroid nasal sprays together. Talk to your healthcare professional or pharmacist about hayfever medications if you are already taking any other medication.