For millions of people worldwide, the arrival of hay fever season signals a time of sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. For those with asthma, this can be particularly challenging, as hay fever can exacerbate asthma symptoms, making it harder to breathe and enjoy the outdoors. In this guide, you will learn more about how to manage asthma symptoms during hay fever season, covering essential prevention tips, remedies, and lifestyle adjustments.

Understanding the Connection between Asthma and Hay Fever

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and constriction of the airways, leading to shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, which can cause sneezing, a runny or congested nose, and itchy eyes, nose, and throat.

Hay fever and asthma often go hand-in-hand. When you have hay fever, your body’s immune system reacts to pollen, releasing histamines and other chemicals that cause inflammation. In people with asthma, this inflammation can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms.

Recognising Hay Fever Triggers

To manage asthma symptoms during hay fever season, it’s essential to recognise common hay fever triggers, which include:

Tree pollen: Typically released in the early spring
Grass pollen: Most common during late spring and summer
Weed pollen: Active during late summer and fall

Identifying which type of pollen affects you most can help you take appropriate preventive measures and reduce your exposure to allergens.

How To Manage Asthma Symptoms During Hay Fever Season

Here are several practical steps you can take to manage your asthma symptoms during hay fever season:

Consult with your chest doctor

It’s important to have an up-to-date asthma action plan and appropriate medications to manage your symptoms. Consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that your current treatment plan is effective and to discuss possible adjustments for hay fever season.

Monitor pollen counts

Keep track of local pollen counts by checking weather reports, smartphone apps, or online pollen trackers. When pollen counts are high, limit your time outdoors, keep windows closed, and consider using an air purifier to reduce indoor allergen levels.

Use allergy medications

Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroid nasal sprays can help alleviate hay fever symptoms and reduce the risk of triggering asthma symptoms. Consult your healthcare provider for the best treatment options for your needs.

Practice good hygiene

Shower and change your clothes after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from your skin and hair. Additionally, wash your bedding frequently to minimize allergens in your sleeping environment.

Consider allergy immunotherapy

Allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) can help desensitise your immune system to allergens, reducing the severity of hay fever symptoms and their impact on your asthma. Discuss these options with your doctor provider to determine if they are right for you.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and managing stress can help strengthen your immune system and reduce your sensitivity to allergens. However, avoid exercising outdoors during high pollen days, and choose indoor activities instead.

Use a saline nasal rinse

Using a saline nasal rinse, such as a neti pot or squeeze bottle, can help clear your nasal passages of pollen and reduce hay fever symptoms. Be sure to follow proper hygiene guidelines and use distilled or sterilised water to avoid introducing any bacteria or contaminants into your nasal passages.

Protect your eyes

Wearing sunglasses or wraparound glasses when outdoors can help protect your eyes from pollen and reduce hay fever symptoms like itchy, watery eyes. Opt for styles that fit closely to your face to block pollen from entering your eyes.

Create a pollen-free zone at home

Keep your living space as allergen-free as possible by vacuuming regularly, using an air purifier with a HEPA filter, and maintaining a consistent indoor humidity level. Avoid using fans that can circulate pollen indoors, and make sure to clean or replace air conditioning filters regularly.

Keep your asthma well-controlled

Managing your asthma effectively is critical during hay fever season. Take your prescribed asthma medications as directed, use a peak flow meter to monitor your lung function, and follow your asthma action plan. If your symptoms worsen, contact your chest doctor for guidance.