If you’ve ever stepped outside in spring and instantly felt your eyes itch, your nose run and your throat tighten – welcome to the club. You might be one of the 40% of people across Europe who suffer from hay fever, and in the UK, that means you’re bracing for a pollen season that now stretches across half of the year.
Traditionally, pollen season in the UK had three phases:
- Tree pollen: Late March to mid-May
- Grass pollen: Mid-May to July
- Weed Pollen: Late June to September
But thanks to climate change, these timelines are shifting. Warmer temperatures and unpredictable rainfall are causing trees and plants to bloom earlier and longer. Some allergy sufferers now report symptoms as early as January or February, and in southern cities like London, Reading, and Bournemouth, hay fever conditions have stretched to over 250 days a year.
As a British Asian, this hits differently. Spring is supposed to be about Ramadan walks, Eid shopping, and garden picnics, not sneezing through every moment. And if you’ve never had allergies before, don’t be surprised if they suddenly show up. Climate change is intensifying pollen potency, and even people without a history of hay fever are starting to feel it.
What Does Pollen Actually Do to You?
Pollen grains contain proteins that trigger allergic reactions. For some, it’s mild a few sneezes and watery eyes. For others, it can lead to:
- Allergic rhinitis ( hay fever): sneezing, congestion. Itchy eyes
- Asthma flare-ups
- Skin irritation or eczema
- Fatigue and brain fog
And when pollen mixes with urban air pollution, it becomes even more aggressive, especially in densely populated areas where many British Asians live.
How to Take Care of Yourself
Here are some practical ways to survive the season:
- Check daily pollen forecasts (the Met Office app is great)
- Wear wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes
- Apply Vaseline around your nostrils to trap pollen
- Shower and change clothes after being outdoors
- Dry laundry indoors to avoid pollen sticking to fabrics
- Use antihistamines or nasal sprays as prescribed
- Keep windows closed during high pollen hours ( early morning & evening)
If symptoms persist or worsen, speak to your GP- especially if you have asthma or eczema. And if you’re fasting during Ramadan, plan your medication schedule carefully to avoid discomfort.
