Understanding Hayfever: Causes, Symptoms, and Tips for Relief

Hayfever can turn a bright spring or summer day into a sneezy battle with allergies. While pollen is a common trigger, allergies aren’t just a seasonal nuisance. Understanding your triggers and finding the right relief can help you stay one step ahead. Here’s how to help take control of hayfever.

What is Hayfever?

Despite its name, hayfever isn’t caused by hay, nor does it typically involve a fever. The term was coined by British physician John Bostock in the early 19th century when he mistakenly believed his symptoms were triggered by the smell of freshly cut hay.

Hayfever affects around 20% of people in Ireland, occurring when the body reacts to harmless airborne allergens.

Common Hayfever Symptoms

• Sneezing
• Blocked or runny nose
• Itchy nose, throat, or ears
• Coughing
• Itchy, watery eye

Medically, it is known as seasonal allergic rhinitis when it flares up at certain times of the year due to seasonal allergens such as grass, trees, and weeds.

When caused by allergens present year-round, such as dust mites, pet dander, and mould, it is referred to as perennial allergic rhinitis. Some people with perennial allergic rhinitis mistake the symptoms as a persistent cold. Read our article to learn more about indoor allergens.

Grass pollen is the most common allergen, and it affects 90% of hayfever sufferers. Hayfever symptoms tend to be more severe from late March to September when pollen levels peak, especially during warm, humid, and windy weather—so it’s wise to be prepared.