Hayfever sufferers tormented early this year as balmy February triggers pollen boom
An early start for high pollen counts is already seeing hayfever sufferers tormented in the UK.
Meteorologists say that spring-like conditions of late have already seen alder tree pollen released into the air a week early.
Birch pollen is also soon expected, more than two weeks ahead of schedule.
Peak levels of grass pollen are similarly anticipated to be pulled forward from June in the coming months as a result of the balmier weather.
Dr Beverley Adams-Groom, who works as a chief pollen forecaster for the National Pollen and Aerobiology Research Unit, said today: ‘People are calling and saying they’ve already got hay fever this year. It’s due to the mild February.’
She added that fungal spores are similarly beginning to peak early, ‘so that is troublesome to those with that allergy.’
ITV weatherman Chris Page also said: ‘Mild air has kicked off the pollen season early. Tree pollen is increasing to high in the south on Monday.’
Those susceptible to hayfever are already taking to social media to lament the early onset of their symptoms.
One person wrote on X, formerly Twitter: ‘So that’s why I have itchy eyes and sneezes.’
Another person said: ‘Blimey, it’s early this year – I’m starting the antihistamines.’
It’s expected this year’s season will last until at least October, with grass pollen gradually being replaced by weed pollen into the autumn.
Hayfever is an exceptionally common condition, which includes symptoms such as frequent sneezing, a runny or blocked nose and, most distinctively, sore and itchy eyes.
It can also worsen respiratory problems in people with asthma.
Though there’s currently no cure, people suffering from hayfever can alleviate their symptoms with antihistamines and, in more extreme cases with swelling, corticosteroids.
The best treatment is to reduce exposure to pollen, which can prove especially difficult as the weather begins to warm up.
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