Hay fever, or seasonal allergic rhinitis, is an immune reaction to pollen. Typical symptoms include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy or watery eyes, coughing, an itchy throat or ears, headache and tiredness. Unlike a cold, which usually settles within one or two weeks, hay-fever symptoms can persist for weeks or months while the relevant pollen is circulating.
Timing provides clues. Tree pollen is often prominent in spring, grass pollen from late spring into summer, and weed pollen later in the year. Weather and location affect daily exposure. People with asthma or eczema are more likely to have hay fever, and poorly controlled nasal allergy can disturb sleep and concentration.
Reducing pollen exposure
Check the pollen forecast and adapt routines on high-count days. Petroleum jelly around the nostrils can trap some pollen, while wraparound sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat reduce contact with the eyes and face. Shower and change clothing after spending time outdoors. Keep windows closed when counts are high, damp-dust surfaces and use a vacuum with a HEPA filter if available.
Avoid drying washing outside and limit activities such as mowing grass when they reliably provoke symptoms. Smoke irritates the airways and can make symptoms worse. These measures reduce exposure but cannot prevent hay fever completely.
Recognising serious symptoms
Wheezing, chest tightness or breathlessness may indicate asthma and deserves prompt assessment. Sudden swelling of the mouth or throat or difficulty breathing is not ordinary hay fever and requires emergency help.
Food and useful supplements
A varied diet supports general health, but no food cures pollen allergy. There is no need to remove dairy, wheat or other foods unless a separate allergy or intolerance has been established. Local honey has not been shown reliably to prevent hay fever.
Supplements should be selected for the individual rather than used automatically. Product directions and advice from an appropriately qualified professional should take precedence over general information.
| Supplement | Effects |
|---|---|
| High-strength multi-strain probiotic | Intended to support a balanced intestinal microbiota involved in normal immune regulation. |
| Vitamin D3 oral spray | Supports normal regulation of the immune response. |
| Zinc citrate | Supports immune function and antioxidant defences. |
| Vitamin C with bioflavonoids or buffered mixed ascorbates | Provides antioxidant support and is described as assisting normal histamine metabolism. |
| Aloe vera juice | Contains polysaccharides described as supporting inflammatory balance, nutrient availability and immune function. |
| Krill oil | Provides omega-3 fats that support normal inflammatory regulation. |
| Supergreens powder | Provides concentrated plant nutrients and is described as alkalising and antioxidant. |
| High-potency multivitamin and mineral formula | Provides B vitamins and other nutrients involved in energy production, antioxidant protection and immune function. |
Evidence for supplements in hay fever is limited and products cannot replace effective antihistamine or nasal treatment. Aloe can cause digestive adverse effects, probiotics may be unsuitable for some immunocompromised people, and krill oil is inappropriate for someone with a crustacean allergy unless specialist advice says otherwise. Excess zinc or vitamin D can be harmful.
A sensible plan combines pollen avoidance, correctly used medicines and review of associated asthma or eczema. Begin preparations before the usual pollen season rather than waiting until symptoms are severe.
Looking for personalised nutrition and lifestyle support? An FNTP member may be able to help you explore an approach suited to your individual needs. Find an FNTP practitioner.
This article is for general education and does not replace individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
