As the winter frost begins to melt away in Stratford-upon-Avon, many of us look forward to the blooming flowers and warmer days. But for millions of people across the UK, the arrival of spring marks the beginning of hay fever season.
If you find yourself sneezing the moment you step outside or dealing with itchy eyes that just won’t stop, you aren’t alone. In Stratford, our unique place is always filled with tree pollen, which often hits earlier and harder than people expect.
However, many people suffer longer than they need to because of a few simple, avoidable mistakes. Let’s look at how you can navigate this hay fever season with more comfort and fewer tissues.
What Is Hay Fever?
Hay fever, or seasonal allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to pollen. When these tiny particles come into contact with your mouth, nose, eyes, and throat, your immune system overreacts.
It treats the harmless pollen like a dangerous invader, releasing a chemical called histamine. This is what causes the classic symptoms: sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, and itchy, red, or watery eyes.
In the UK, we generally deal with three main types of pollen
- Tree Pollen: Usually peaks from late March to mid-May (though hazel and alder can start in February).
- Grass Pollen: The most common trigger, peaking from mid-May to July.
- Weed Pollen: Usually peaks from late June to September.
Common Hay Fever Mistakes People Make
Despite how common it is, many people don’t manage their allergies effectively. Are you making any of these five frequent mistakes during hay fever season?
1. Waiting for Symptoms to Start
One of the biggest mistakes is waiting until you are miserable to take your medication. Antihistamines work best when they are already in your system before the pollen hits your receptors. If you know you suffer every year, you should start your treatment at least two weeks before your typical start date.
2. Drying Your Clothes Outdoors
It is tempting to hang your washing out in the fresh spring air. However, wet laundry acts like a magnet for floating pollen. By the time you bring your sheets and clothes back inside, they are covered in allergens that you will be breathing in all night.
3. Rubbing Your Itchy Eyes
When your eyes itch, the natural instinct is to rub them. This actually makes things worse by releasing more histamine and potentially rubbing more pollen directly into the eye. Instead, use a cold compress or specific hay fever eye drops.
4. Leaving Windows Open
Fresh air is great, but during peak hay fever season, an open window is an open door for pollen. This is especially true in the early morning and late evening when pollen counts are often at their highest.
5. Ignoring Nasal Sprays
Many people rely solely on tablets, but steroid nasal sprays are often more effective for a blocked or runny nose. They work by reducing inflammation directly in the nasal passages, but they can take a few days to reach full effect.
What You Should Do Instead
To truly get ahead of hay fever season, you need a “defence-first” mindset. Here are the practical steps our pharmacists recommend:
- The 2026 Strategy: Start your antihistamines in mid-February to prepare for the tree pollen peaks in March.
- The Bedtime Routine: Shower and wash your hair before bed to remove any pollen you’ve “collected” throughout the day.
- Vaseline Hack: Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly around your nostrils to trap pollen before it gets in.
- Wraparound Sunglasses: These aren’t just for style—they physically block pollen from reaching your eyes.
- Check the Forecast: Use the NHS Pollen Forecast to plan your outdoor activities.
When to Speak to a Pharmacist
You don’t need a GP appointment to get expert allergy support. Under the Pharmacy First service, our team at Rother Care can offer clinical advice and suggest the best combination of treatments for you.
Whether you need a prescription-strength nasal spray or advice on the [Best Hay Fever Treatments], we are here to help. If your symptoms are affecting your sleep, your work, or your asthma, come and see us.
Hay Fever Q&A (FAQs)
What triggers hay fever the most?
In the UK, grass pollen is the most common trigger, affecting about 95% of hay fever sufferers. However, in areas like Stratford, tree pollen (birch, oak, and ash) is a significant early-season trigger.
What is the best time to take antihistamines?
Most modern antihistamines are “once-a-day.” Taking them in the morning provides protection during high-pollen daylight hours, but some people find taking them at night helps prevent the “morning sneeze”.
Can hay fever cause fatigue?
Yes. “Hay fever fog” is a real thing. The constant immune response, combined with disrupted sleep caused by a blocked nose, can leave you feeling completely drained.
How long does hay fever last?
It depends on what you are allergic to. If you only react to one type of tree pollen, it might last 4–6 weeks. If you are allergic to multiple types of pollen, you could have symptoms from February right through to September.
Should I use a humidifier?
While humidifiers can help with dry air, they don’t filter pollen. A HEPA air purifier is generally more effective for removing allergens from your indoor air.
Conclusion
Managing hay fever season shouldn’t be a guessing game. By avoiding common mistakes, like drying clothes outside or starting meds too late, you can take control of your spring.
At Rother Care Pharmacy, we are committed to helping our Stratford community breathe easier. Our pharmacy is always available for those who need professional, local guidance without the wait.
If hay fever is affecting your daily life, speak to your local pharmacist for the right support.
Book a Pharmacist Consultation Today