Seasonal Allergies (Hay Fever) Explained: Causes, Treatment & When to See a Specialist”

A review article summarising the latest insights on hay fever, its triggers, and evidence-based management options from Mayo Clinic, Medline, and other reputable medical sources.

Understand what triggers seasonal allergies (hay fever), how to relieve symptoms, and when you need specialist care.

  • What are seasonal allergies (hay fever)?

  • Seasonal allergies, also called allergic rhinitis, occur when the immune system responds to harmless outdoor (and sometimes indoor) allergens such as pollen, mold spores, grass or tree-pollens. 

  • Unlike a viral cold, seasonal allergies are not caused by an infection. 

  • Typical symptoms include runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, sinus pressure. 

  • What triggers them and why do they occur?

  • The immune system creates antibodies (IgE) to an otherwise harmless allergen; when exposed, these trigger release of histamine and other chemicals causing symptoms. 

  • Common triggers: tree pollen in spring, grass pollen in early summer, weed pollen (e.g., ragweed) in late summer/fall.

  • Indoor triggers: dust mites, mold spores, pet dander — especially if the person is sensitised to those. 

  • Critical note: The timing of “season” varies widely by regional climate (e.g., Melbourne vs US) and climate change is altering pollen seasons, so generic advice may mislead some readers.

  • How are seasonal allergies diagnosed?

  • Clinical history (pattern of symptoms, trigger exposures) is the starting point. 

  • Possible tests: skin-prick testing, specific IgE blood tests. 

  • Caveat: Test results must be interpreted in the full context — sensitisation (positive test) doesn’t always equal clinical allergy (symptoms on exposure).

  • Tip for your practice page: Recommend referring to an allergist or immunologist if symptoms persist or worsen.

  • Treatment and management strategies

  • Avoidance: Reduce exposure to known triggers (e.g., monitoring pollen counts, keeping windows closed during high pollen days).

  • Medications: Over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, decongestants, eye drops. 

  • Immunotherapy: For persistent or severe cases, allergy shots (subcutaneous) or sublingual tablets to desensitise. 

  • Lifestyle/home remedies: Use HEPA filters, keep indoor humidity low, avoid carpets where dust mites accumulate, flush sinuses with saline.

  • Critical note: Many patients rely solely on avoidance + antihistamines but fail to engage specialist evaluation or immunotherapy when appropriate — delaying improved quality of life.

  • When to see a specialist & red flags

  • If symptoms are poorly controlled despite standard treatment.

  • If there are complications (e.g., recurrent sinus infections, asthma exacerbations, suspected anaphylaxis).

  • If you require immunotherapy or have suspected complex allergies (e.g., multiple triggers, co-morbid asthma).

  • Red flags include: breathing difficulty, swelling of face/throat/lips, hives, shock — possible anaphylaxis.

  • Take-away and actionable checklist

  • Check pollen forecasts for your region (Melbourne-specific — you could link an Australian pollen forecast).

  • Keep an “allergy diary” to correlate symptoms with exposures.

  • Review your medication regimen each season.

  • Before entering the allergy season, consider pre-emptive treatment (e.g., starting nasal steroid spray 1–2 weeks before peak).

  • If you’re still symptomatic: book consult with an allergist for further testing and possible immunotherapy.

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