Surviving Spring Allergies: How to Manage Hay Fever and Breathe Easier This Season

Spring in Auckland brings longer days, fresh blooms, and unfortunately, for many, the familiar symptoms of hay fever. Allergic rhinitis (commonly known as hay fever) affects up to 20% of New Zealanders, with symptoms often peaking from September to November as pollen counts rise across the country (Allergy NZ, 2024).

Why Allergies Flare Up in Spring

Hay fever is caused when the immune system reacts to airborne pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. This reaction releases histamines, leading to inflammation of the nasal passages and eyes. Common symptoms include sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. In some individuals, these allergies can also worsen asthma or sinus issues.

Practical Strategies to Reduce Symptoms

• Track pollen counts: Local pollen forecasts are available through NIWA and MetService. Try to stay indoors on windy or high-pollen days, particularly during the morning when pollen levels peak.

• Keep your home pollen-free: Close windows during the day and use air conditioning if possible. Washing bedding regularly and vacuuming with a HEPA filter can also help.

• Shower and change after being outdoors: This removes pollen from your skin and hair, reducing evening flare-ups.

• Use over-the-counter treatments: Non-drowsy antihistamines (such as cetirizine or loratadine) can relieve most symptoms. Saline nasal sprays or corticosteroid nasal sprays may also be effective.

• Consider medical review for persistent symptoms: If you experience prolonged discomfort, disrupted sleep, or coexisting asthma, consult your GP. Immunotherapy may be an option for long-term allergy relief.

When to Seek Medical Advice? See a doctor if your symptoms persist despite medication, interfere with daily activities, or worsen your asthma. Your GP can assess whether prescription treatments, referral to an allergy specialist, or allergy testing may help.

Who to call? If you’re struggling with allergy symptoms this spring, book an appointment with Sunnynook Medical Centre. Our doctors can help identify the cause of your allergies and create a treatment plan that helps you breathe easier all season long.

References

• Allergy New Zealand. (2024). Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever). Retrieved from www.allergy.org.nz

• Ministry of Health NZ. (2023). Managing Allergies and Asthma.

• NIWA. (2024). Pollen Forecasts and Seasonal Trends in New Zealand.