Hay fever season will not be the same time of year for everyone. In different parts of the world, hay fever season occurs at different times, but it is generally a term used to describe the time of year when flowers and plants are being pollinated. The pollen released into the air frequently causes many people to experience allergy type symptoms such as watery eyes and sneezing.
Airborne pollen is typically at higher levels during springtime; however, spring occurs at different times of year in different locations. For instances, in the United States, pollen begins to be a problem usually around late March extending into early May. In Australia, however, springtime begins in September and extends to November. No matter what time of year it occurs, hay fever season typically causes the same type of allergy symptoms.
In addition to watery eyes and sneezing, hay fever symptoms may include coughing and runny nose. Some allergic reactions occur in the eyes, such as swelling, redness, and itching. Allergy symptoms frequently mimic those of the common cold, and the two conditions are commonly confused. Most of the time, a cold will clear up within a short amount of time, while hay fever symptoms typically continue throughout hay fever season.
Many of those who suffer from allergies related to hay fever season may find some relief by taking allergy medication. Over-the-counter medications for hay fever are available at most pharmacies, but some sufferers have symptoms so severe that prescription treatments may be necessary. This is especially true for those who suffer from asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Sometimes, rainfall patterns can contribute to the severity of hay fever season. Generally, when it rains, pollen is often cleared out of the air, and symptoms may not be as severe. On the other hand, a spring season that is very rainy generally results in an explosion of plant growth. The more it rains, the longer hay fever season is likely to last.
Wind and sunshine also have an impact on the severity of hay fever season. On windy days, pollen is spread over a wider area, and this may sometimes cause a lessening of allergy symptoms. Plants generally begin releasing pollen early in the morning, and by early evening, pollen levels are usually at their highest. Typically, more pollen is released on sunny days than on days when the sky is overcast.