Managing Hay Fever (it’s that time of year again!)

Managing Hay Fever (it’s that time of year again!)

Springtime in Melbourne brings beautiful blossoms and warmer weather, but also, for some, hay fever-induced itchy eyes, congestion, and sneezing.

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to airborne allergens—most often pollen, especially grass pollen, tree pollen, weeds, mould, or dust mites. It’s estimated that around 1 in 4 Australians suffer from hay fever.

Considering Melbourne’s pollen forecast during spring frequently shows pollen levels reaching high or extreme levels, now is a great time to learn more about hay fever management options.

FACTS ON THIS PAGE

• Managing Hay Fever
• What Is Hay Fever and Why Is It So Common in Spring in Melbourne?
• What Are Some Common Hay Fever Symptoms?
• Is There a Cure for Hay Fever?
• How Can I Manage My Hay Fever Symptoms?
• Can Hay Fever Be Dangerous? When Should I Seek Medical Advice
• How Can My GP Help with My Hay Fever Symptoms?
• FAQs
• Get In Touch

What Is Hay Fever, and Why Is It So Common in Spring in Melbourne?

In Melbourne, grasses such as ryegrass, and trees including plane, cypress, and oak, pollinate heavily from October to December. Wind and other climate factors also increase the pollen load, which can further exacerbate hay fever symptoms.

What Are Some Common Hay Fever Symptoms?

• Sneezing
• Runny, itchy, or blocked nose
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Itchy throat, palate, or ears
• Postnasal drip, cough
• Problems sleeping, which can lead to daytime tiredness or reduced concentration

Is There a Cure for Hay Fever?

You can’t permanently cure hay fever. Instead, available treatments aim to relieve symptoms, reduce exposure to allergens, or gradually reduce sensitivity to allergens.

How Can I Manage My Hay Fever Symptoms?

Natural / Lifestyle Measures

• Keep an eye on the Melbourne Pollen Forecast and limit your time outdoors on high-pollen days.
• Keep windows and doors closed and use recirculated air in the car.
• Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors and change your clothes or shower after being outside.
• Avoid mowing grass or being near freshly cut lawns.
• Use saline nasal rinses to remove pollen from your nasal passages.

Clinical Measures

• Over-the-counter antihistamine tablets or eye drops.
• Nasal corticosteroid sprays (daily use is often more effective for congestion).
• Combination nasal sprays (antihistamine + steroid) or decongestant sprays/tablets when needed.
• Immunotherapy (skin-prick or blood tests followed by treatment under specialist supervision) for severe or persistent cases.

Can Hay Fever Be Dangerous? When Should I Seek Medical Advice

While hay fever is not generally life-threatening, complications or danger can arise:

• If it triggers or worsens asthma, leading to wheezing, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing.
• If symptoms persist (e.g., occurring many days/weeks in a row) and interfere with sleep, school, work, or daily functioning.
• If severe sinus infections, ear infections, or other complications arise.

How Can My GP Help with My Hay Fever Symptoms?

Your GP at Research Medical Centre can:

• Confirm your diagnosis—ask about timing, your triggers, and the severity of symptoms.
• Perform or refer for allergy testing (skin prick or blood test) to identify specific allergens.
• Prescribe stronger medications—e.g., steroid nasal sprays, or combination treatments.
• Suggest immunotherapy if appropriate.
• Provide advice on symptom management strategies tailored to your environment and health history.

FAQs

1. Do hay fever symptoms get worse in certain weather?
Yes — warm, windy days, after rain or thunderstorms (which stir up pollen), Melbourne’s pollen count tends to spike.

2. Is hay fever just seasonal?
It can be both seasonal and perennial. Seasonal hay fever is linked to pollen, while year-round hay fever may result from dust mites, mould, and animal fur.

3. Are there side effects to nasal sprays or antihistamines?
Mild side effects like dryness, irritation, or drowsiness can occur. More severe side effects are rare. Always use products as directed and consult your GP if concerned.

4. Can children have hay fever?
Yes. Hay fever affects adults and children alike. Children may show symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and a blocked nose. If symptoms impact their sleep or school, medical advice is recommended.

5. Can I try allergy immunotherapy?
Yes. Immunotherapy (either injections or under-the-tongue tablets) helps many people with moderate to severe hay fever, especially when standard treatments don’t provide adequate relief.

Get in Touch

Don’t let hay fever flare-ups ruin the warmer weather for you. At Nillumbik Medical Centre, our experienced GPs and allied health professionals can help you:

• Identify your allergy triggers.
• Create a personalised treatment plan.
• Access clinical treatments or immunotherapy if needed.

Manage hay fever and improve your daily comfort today. Visit our website or contact us to book an appointment.