Climate Change and Hayfever

This February, experts warned that hay fever season started early in the UK! Scientists are pointing to climate change as a key factor in the recent surge of cold-like symptoms. Changing weather patterns are extending pollen production and shifting where allergenic plants can grow.

Hay fever is an allergic reaction caused by particles in the air, including mould and dust mites. Pollen causes this reaction for nearly 10 million people in England. Symptoms commonly include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, and irritation of the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and throat.

Hay fever can peak at different times depending on the primary source of pollen where you live in the UK. According to the Met Office, tree pollen generally occurs from late March to mid-May. Grass pollen lasts from mid-May until July and weed pollen from lateJune to September.

Hay fever can also be impacted by the weather, as rain, wind, and temperature also affect how much pollen is produced and how it is dispersed. Because climate change creates changes in weather, it can also change the potency of pollen.

One of the biggest impacts in the UK, however, is the effect climate change has on the geographical distribution of allergenic plants. For example, ‘ragweed’ is an invasive species rapidly spreading across Europe and is known to cause strong allergic reactions. The plant can produce billions of grains of pollen and higher carbon dioxide levels have been shown to increase its pollen's potency. It is estimated that by 2050, airborne pollen concentrations from this plant will be 4 times higher than they are now.

Whilst hay fever started early inEngland, this phenomenon was also noticed elsewhere in early March. In Spain, the Spanish Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology recently warned residents in Murcia of unusually high pollen levels. Similar warnings were also issued in parts of the United States and France. This is not the first time countries have given such warnings to hay fever sufferers, as climate change impacts pollen production seasons and plant distribution internationally.

Experts warn that earlier hay fever season can result in longer duration of symptoms and in case of higher pollen counts, more severe symptoms. Amena Warner, Head of Clinical Services at Allergy UK, explains “Hay fever can cause misery, and it is associated with other allergic conditions such as asthma which can complicate management and increase health risks”.

Allergy UK proposes an action plan for hay fever sufferers, suggesting individuals monitor pollen forecasts, limit outdoor activities on high pollen days, shower and change clothes when returning home, keep windows shut and avoiding drying clothes outside. They also suggest individuals consider wearing a mask and advise that effective treatments can include antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops, and saline or allergen barrier balms.

Five-day pollen forecasts can be found on The Met Office website. However, for people looking to plan ahead, they note they do not “ produce seasonal or long‑range pollen forecasts”.

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