Hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, affects almost 20% of people in the UK. It is caused by the immune system's overreaction to one or more kinds of pollen and results in symptoms similar to a cold, such as a runny nose, repeated sneezing attacks and itchy, watery eyes.
The most common cause of hay fever is grass pollen, which is in season from May to July. However, hay fever may also be triggered by tree pollen (March to May) or weeds such as nettles and docks (autumn).
Hay fever often begins in childhood or adolescence, although it can develop at any age. It is more likely to occur if there is a history of allergies within the family.
To find out more about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of hayfever, simply select an item from the menu below.
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