Spring can bring sneezing, a blocked nose and itchy eyes for people with hay fever. When pollen levels rise, these symptoms can disturb sleep, work and school.
Hay fever, also called allergic rhinitis, is common in Australia. Mild symptoms often settle with pharmacist advice and simple steps. Ongoing symptoms may need a GP assessment.
This guide covers symptoms, relief options and when to seek medical advice.
Key Takeaways
- Hay fever is an allergic reaction, not an infection.
- Symptoms often return in spring when pollen exposure rises.
- Antihistamines, nasal sprays and avoiding triggers may help.
- A pharmacist can advise on mild symptoms.
- See a GP if symptoms persist, affect daily life or the cause is unclear.
- Wheeze or breathing difficulty is not ordinary hay fever.
What Is Hay Fever?
Hay fever is an allergic reaction affecting the nose and eyes. Your immune system reacts to normally harmless particles, called allergens, and this causes inflammation. The result is sneezing, itching and a runny or blocked nose.
The condition is common. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 23.9% of Australians reported hay fever or allergic rhinitis in the 2022 National Health Survey. It can run in families, and people with asthma or eczema are more likely to have it. Despite the name, hay fever does not cause a fever.
Why Does Hay Fever Get Worse in Spring?
Hay fever often worsens in spring because plants release more pollen. Spring in NSW runs from September to November, and grass pollen is often high from spring into early summer. Tree and weed pollens can also play a part. Windy, dry days may carry pollen further so that symptoms can change from day to day.
Hay fever is not always seasonal. Dust mites, mould and pet dander can cause symptoms all year. Some people react to several triggers, which can make spring feel worse.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Hay Fever?
Common hay fever symptoms include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose and itchy, watery eyes. You may also notice:
- An itchy nose, throat or mouth
- Red, puffy or gritty eyes
- Mucus dripping down the back of the throat, sometimes with a cough
- A reduced sense of smell
- Headache or facial pressure
- Tiredness or poor sleep from a blocked nose
Symptoms can be mild, or they can affect sleep, concentration and daily activities. They often start soon after exposure to a trigger.
How Can You Tell Hay Fever From a Cold?
Hay fever and colds can feel similar. A cold is caused by a virus, while hay fever is an allergy.
Recommended replacement table:
| Feature | Hay fever | Common cold |
| Sneezing | Common, sometimes frequent | Common |
| Itchy nose or eyes | Common | Less typical |
| Fever | Not typical | Sometimes occurs |
| Nasal symptoms | May continue with allergen exposure | Usually improve as infection resolves |
| Pattern | May recur with particular triggers | Usually follows a viral infection |
| Body aches or sore throat | Less typical; throat irritation may occur | Can occur |
These differences can offer clues, but symptoms often overlap. A GP can assess ongoing or uncertain symptoms, particularly if you feel unwell or your symptoms are worsening.
What Helps Relieve Hay Fever Symptoms?
Hay fever symptoms can often be managed with a mix of trigger avoidance and suitable medicines.
Reduce Your Exposure
- Check weather and pollen information, and limit outdoor time on high pollen days.
- Keep windows closed at home and in the car when pollen is high
- Shower and change clothes after time outdoors
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes
- Dry washing indoors on windy days
- Wash bedding regularly to reduce dust mites
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, and try a cool compress for puffy eyes
Medicines That May Help
Non-sedating antihistamines may help with sneezing, itching and a runny nose. Corticosteroid nasal sprays reduce inflammation and can be particularly useful for persistent nasal congestion. They generally work best when used regularly and correctly, with the full benefit sometimes taking several days or longer. A pharmacist can explain suitable options and demonstrate how to use a nasal spray.
Saline rinses can clear mucus, and antihistamine eye drops may relieve itchy eyes. Decongestant sprays should only be used short-term, because longer use can worsen congestion.
The best choice depends on your age, symptoms, pregnancy, other medicines and health conditions. Ask a pharmacist or GP if you are unsure. Children’s doses differ, so check the label and seek advice first.
When Symptoms Stay Troublesome
If symptoms continue despite treatment, a GP can review possible triggers, your current medicines and how you use them. Allergy testing is not always necessary, but it may help identify specific allergens in some cases. A GP can discuss whether blood tests, skin-prick testing or specialist referral is appropriate. For persistent or difficult-to-manage symptoms, an allergy specialist may consider allergen immunotherapy.
Can Children Get Hay Fever?
Yes. Children can experience hay fever, and the symptoms may resemble repeated colds. Itchy eyes, frequent nose rubbing, sneezing and symptoms that return with particular triggers can provide clues. Hay fever may also disturb sleep and concentration at school. Parents can speak with a GP if symptoms persist or they are unsure which treatments are suitable for their child’s age.
Can Hay Fever Occur With Asthma?
Hay fever and asthma can occur together, but they are different conditions. Wheezing, chest tightness, persistent coughing or shortness of breath may indicate asthma or another breathing problem and should be assessed promptly. In NSW, thunderstorm asthma is a particular concern from October to December when certain weather and pollen conditions combine.
Severe breathing difficulty, trouble speaking in full sentences or blue lips require emergency help—call 000.
When Should You See a GP for Hay Fever?
Mild symptoms may be managed with pharmacist advice. A GP appointment may be appropriate if:
- Symptoms continue despite over-the-counter treatment
- Sleep, work, study or daily activities are affected
- You are unsure whether it is hay fever, a cold or sinus trouble
- Wheeze, chest tightness or cough occurs with hay fever symptoms
- You have facial pain or frequent sinus infections
- You are pregnant or take regular medicines and need treatment advice
- A child’s symptoms keep returning
A GP can review your history, discuss likely triggers, check which treatments suit you and arrange referral if needed.
If hay fever symptoms are persistent or difficult to manage, you can arrange a GP appointment at Cameron Park Healthcare to discuss suitable assessment and management options.
What Should You Expect at the Appointment?
Your GP will ask about your symptoms, when they occur, possible triggers and medicines you already use. They may examine your nose, eyes and chest. Bring a list of current medicines and any products you have tried. If symptoms suggest asthma or sinus problems, your GP may suggest further assessment.
Hay Fever Care in Cameron Park
Spring can bring higher pollen exposure across parts of NSW. Cameron Park Healthcare provides general medical consultations for adults and children in Cameron Park and nearby Hunter communities. People who also have asthma can ask about ongoing asthma management through chronic disease care. To discuss your symptoms, you can book a GP appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does hay fever last in spring?
Symptoms can last as long as you are exposed to your trigger, which may be several weeks. Timing varies with the person, pollen type and weather.
Is hay fever contagious?
No. Hay fever is an allergic condition and cannot be passed from person to person.
Can hay fever make you tired?
Yes. A blocked nose and itchy eyes can disturb sleep, which may leave you feeling run down.
Do I need allergy testing for hay fever?
Not always. Many people are assessed based on their symptoms and history. A GP can discuss whether testing may help.
Can hay fever cause coughing?
Yes. Hay fever can cause coughing when mucus drains down the back of the throat, known as postnasal drip. A persistent cough, especially with wheezing or breathing difficulty, may need assessment for asthma or another condition.