Check the forecast
The Met Office publishes a daily pollen forecast. On high pollen days, try to limit time outdoors, especially in the early morning and evening.
Keep pollen away
- put petroleum jelly or an allergen barrier balm around your nostrils
- wear wraparound sunglasses
- shower and change your clothes after being outside
- keep windows and doors shut when you can
- dry washing indoors on high pollen days
- vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth
- keep car windows shut and use a pollen filter if your car has one
Driving
Some hay fever medicines, and hay fever itself, can make you drowsy. It is an offence to drive if your driving is impaired. Choose non-drowsy medicines and do not drive if you feel sleepy.
Exams
Hay fever season falls during exam season. Students should start treatment early and tell their school or college if symptoms are bad.
Support
Allergy UK runs a free helpline.
Sources we used
We check this page at least once a year, and sooner when the rules change. Read how we check our facts, or tell us if something looks wrong.