Month By Month Hayfever Guide - Understanding Your Yearly Pollen Calendar

If hayfever is making your life miserable, learning when the pollen levels are at their highest can really help you to deal with your symptoms. Hayfever is traditionally associated with the summer, but did you know that different types of pollen peak at different times? Some people are more sensitive to certain types of pollen over others, meaning hayfever season isn’t the same for everyone.

Our month-by-month hayfever guide will tell you when the peak seasons are and how to get ready for them.

Looking at the UK pollen calendar you’ll see tree pollen starts early in the year, grass pollen hits in the summer and weed pollen cause symptoms for many well into the autumn. Where you live in the country can also make a huge difference too.

When you learn which pollen types affect you most and when they’re at their highest level you can take sensible steps to limit your exposure and start medication early. That way, you can take back control of your hayfever rather than letting it control you.

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Understanding Your Hayfever Calendar

Like most things, if you plan ahead for hayfever, you’ll be much better prepared in the long run. If you keep track of peak pollen times, you’ll be better able to manage your symptoms and enjoy the warmer weather in comfort. This guide outlines the monthly pollen forecast, tells you what to expect and offers guidance on how to be hayfever ready.

How To Use The Guide

We’ve broken things down, so you know what to expect each month and what signs to look out for. Head to the months where you’re most affected, check out what’s happening and read our monthly hayfever advice to discover what treatments are available to ease your symptoms. We’ve got you covered every single month.

Regional Variations

Hayfever season varies across the UK and if you live in the south, you’ll likely experience the onset of hayfever symptoms earlier than you would if you lived in the north. If you live by the sea, you can also expect pollen counts to be a bit lower. Weather plays a big role too – warm dry weather will lead to high pollen while damp wet days will help clear the air.

Recording Your Symptoms

Alongside this guide it’s a good idea to keep a daily journal of symptoms. A hayfever diary can help you spot patterns and prepare for high allergy periods in future.

Early Year (January To March)

Hayfever might not be on your mind when it’s freezing outside and summer seems a distant memory, but for some people, symptoms of hayfever start as early as January. It’s also a good time to plan for the year ahead.

January

While January is still cold, and we may even have snow on the ground, plants are starting to come back to life. Early tree pollens from alder, hazel and yew may already be circulating, especially in warmer areas like the south. Pollen levels are still low but if you suffer badly from hayfever in high season, you may notice symptoms even at this time of year.

It’s not just pollen you need to think about. Because you spend more time indoors in winter, you’re also exposed to dust mites, pet hair and mould spores more often.

You can prepare by:

• Monitoring pollen forecasts for signs of any increases
• Considering starting antihistamines early, particularly if you know tree pollen is a trigger
• Fitting your vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and using it regularly to reduce indoor allergens

Flixonase Nasal Spray

Flixonase is a nasal spray that is used to treat both seasonal and year-round allergies (known as allergic rhinitis), including hay fever.

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February

By February, tree pollen becomes more noticeable as many trees start to form early leaf buds. Sneezing, itchy eyes and mild congestion are not unusual if you’re sensitive to tree pollen.

Early prevention suggestions:

• Keep windows closed on dry days to limit exposure
• Shower after being outdoors to remove pollen from skin and hair
• Try using a barrier balm, like Vaseline, at the base of your nose to trap pollen so you don’t breathe it in

Avamys Nasal Spray

Avamys nasal spray effectively reduces symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever), including nasal congestion, sneezing, a running nose, and watery, itchy and red eyes.

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March

Although it may be lovely to see the trees forming new leaves, they’ll now be releasing large amounts of pollen into the air. If you get symptoms, you could be one of the 25% who are susceptible to this type of pollen.

Treatment suggestions:

• If you haven’t already, now’s the time to start taking antihistamines daily
• A nasal spray can cut congestion before symptoms get too bad
• Carry eye drops in your bag or pocket to soothe itchy, watery eyes

Piriton Tablets

Piriton tablets and syrup can provide fast and effective relief from hay fever and other allergies in adults and children.

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Peak Season (April To July)

Spring and early summer is when hayfever season really gets going, marking the peak for most people. You’ll find pollen levels are at their highest with both tree and grass pollen dominating the air. To avoid suffering with sneezing, itchy eyes and even a sore throat, you need to proactively manage your symptoms now.

April

Hazel pollen may be dropping in April, but it’s replaced by pine, willow, birch and ash which all peak this month. If you’re most sensitive to tree pollen, your symptoms may be at their worst now.

Ways to cope:

• Take antihistamines daily to deal with symptoms
• Use a nasal spray to reduce inflammation of your airways
• Limit outdoor activities on high pollen days

Dymista Nasal Spray

Containing both an antihistamine and a steroid, Dymista is a popular choice for both medical professionals and patients in the treatment of hay fever.

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May

As we enter May you may be lucky enough to enjoy a little respite, as tree pollen begins to drop. However, grass pollen begins to climb. If you’ve not had symptoms until now, you’re most likely sensitive to grass pollen. If symptoms continue or get worse, you may be susceptible to both.

Peak season prep:

• Track pollen forecasts so you can plan ahead
• Wear wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting into your eyes
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors to remove pollen

Chlorphenamine Tablets & Solution

Chlorphenamine is known as a sedating antihistamine, which works by preventing the actions of histamine within your body. Chlorphenamine can be used to treat the symptoms associated with some allergic conditions.

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June

If you’ve dealt with hayfever for a while, you’ll know that June is not your friend. It’s the worst month for most people, with grass pollen at its highest. This is the most common allergen affecting around 90% of people with hayfever.

Treatment and managing your activities:

• Consider a stronger antihistamine if symptoms are severe
• Use a pollen filter in your car and home to keep air cleaner
• If you exercise outdoors, choose times when pollen counts are lower and shower after

Xyzal 5mg Tablets

Xyzal tablets are a prescription-strength antihistamine scientifically proven to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis and nettle rash.

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July

By July, grass pollen levels start to drop, but weed pollen, like nettle and dock, begins to rise. If you’re allergic to both types, you could still experience strong symptoms, extending your discomfort from hayfever well into the summer.

Summer holiday considerations:

• Continue taking antihistamines daily to ease symptoms
• If travelling, check the pollen levels at your destination so you can prepare
• Pack antihistamines and eye drops, in case symptoms flare up
• Stay hydrated – if you’re dehydrated it can make you feel worse

Nasonex Nasal Spray

Nasonex is a steroidal nasal spray used to combat symptoms of allergic rhinitis, reducing inflammation, easing congestion and putting a stop to an itchy, runny nose.

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Late Season (August To October)

Summer starts to wind down now but hayfever season isn’t over just yet. Weed pollen and fungal spores peak in late summer while autumn brings a shift towards indoor allergens.

August

Grass pollen drops but weed pollen from plants like nettle and mugwort begin to take over, reaching their highest levels. Fungal spores from mould and mildew also rise, especially in damp or humid conditions. If you live in a city with less green spaces your symptoms may be milder. On the other hand, if you’re in the country you could still have a couple months feeling under the weather.

Late summer management:

• Shut your windows in the early morning and evening when pollen levels are at their highest
• Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce irritation from airborne pollen
• Keep an eye on, and clean regularly, damp areas like the kitchen and bathroom where mould can grow

Desloratadine 5mg Tablets

Desloratadine 5mg tablets are a prescription-only non-drowsy antihistamine treatment for allergic rhinitis. They prevent symptoms such as sneezing, congestion and runny nose.

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Includes free delivery & prescription

September

By September respite is in sight – most pollens have dropped though some weed pollens will linger, especially in milder weather. Now’s a good time to prepare for seasonal changes.

Reducing treatment and autumn prep:

• If symptoms are easing, consider tapering antihistamine use and monitor reactions
• Maintain good indoor air quality by using an air purifier at home
• Start prepping for autumn allergies such as dust mites which can get worse when the heating goes on

Telfast

Telfast contains fexofenadine hydrochloride, an antihistamine that combats symptoms of hay fever and other allergic reactions.

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October

By October pollen levels are minimal, but indoor allergens like pet hair, dust and mould become more noticeable, particularly as this is the month when most people turn their heating on.

Indoor focus:

• Reflect on your hayfever treatment to see what worked and what didn’t so you can be better prepared for next year
• Deep clean indoor spaces, especially carpets, to reduce dust mites and mould
• Consider switching to allergy-friendly bedding for the winter months

Rhinolast

Rhinolast is a prescription-only antihistamine nasal spray used to alleviate irritating symptoms of common allergies. Helping to ease congestion, prevent an itchy nose and relieves sneezing as well as a blocked nose.

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Includes free delivery & prescription

Winter Months (November To December)

You can breathe a welcome sigh of relief from the discomfort of hayfever, but don’t drop your guard completely – pet hair, dust and mould spores can still cause similar symptoms even when it’s cold. It’s also the perfect time to prepare for next year so you’re ready when your hayfever symptoms return.

November

With colder weather keeping you indoors, dust and mould become common triggers for those who are sensitive to them. Popping the heating on can also stir up allergens trapped in carpets and furnishings.

Managing indoor allergens:

• Vacuum with a HEPA filter in your machine to trap dust and pet hair
• Use a dehumidifier to prevent mould in damp areas
• Plan your hayfever treatment for next year – review what worked and make changes if needed

Benacort Nasal Spray

Benacort Nasal Spray is a highly effective steroidal nasal spray that is used to prevent and suppress sneezing, nasal congestion and an itchy, runny nose caused by hayfever.

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Includes free delivery & prescription

December

Even in winter, if the weather is mild, you might get tree pollen in certain areas. You may be more focused on the festive season but indoor heating, scented candles and even Christmas trees can also cause symptoms to flare up.

Preparing for next year:

• Check your medication supply so you’re ready for early pollen in January
• Wash bedding and soft furnishings regularly to keep dust levels low
• If you suffer from winter allergies use an air purifier to reduce indoor allergens

Treathay Tablets

Treathay can be used by adults and children over the age of 12 years to relieve symptoms of hay fever, such as sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes.

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Always Remember...

It is essential that you speak to a licensed medical professional before starting any hayfever medication. They can provide personalised, expert guidance, assess potential risks and ensure that your chosen treatment is safe and suitable for your health needs.

Be Prepared to Fight Hayfever

Keeping on top of your hayfever isn’t just a summer concern, it’s a year-round effort. Once you understand how the UK pollen calendar works you can stay ahead of seasonal changes and be ready when symptoms hit.

By starting treatment early, making some small lifestyle adjustments and keeping an eye on pollen levels you can enjoy every season with fewer disruptions. Don’t wait for symptoms to take over. Get on top of your hayfever now for a more comfortable year ahead.

Whether it’s the height of hayfever season or the depths of winter The Independent Pharmacy stocks a range of hayfever medication to help manage your symptoms. Don’t let hayfever take over your life - order now, so you’re prepared for whenever hayfever strikes.

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Sources:

https://www.entuk.org/patients/conditions/39/hayfever_update_covid19_pandemic/

https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2024/02/23/will-climate-change-make-the-effects-of-pollen-worse/

https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/seasonal-advice/health-wellbeing/pollen/when-is-hayfever-season

https://www.allergyuk.org/news/tree-pollen-season

https://www.thermofisher.com/allergy/wo/en/allergen-fact-sheets/oak-tree.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allergic_rhinitis

https://myhealth-devon.nhs.uk/my-condition/hayfever