Topic analysis

Hay fever season is lasting longer - here's how to cope with it

A major global review involving 65 scientists, published in Lancet Public Health, found climate change has extended hay fever pollen seasons by up to two weeks compared to the 1990s, with earlier pollination of European trees (birch, alder, olive) and elevated pollen levels in the UK due to warm, dry weather, impacting millions by reducing quality of life, causing missed work/school days, and triggering asthma or COPD flare-ups. Allergy experts recommend over-the-counter medication combinations, hygiene practices like showering after outdoor exposure, and immunotherapy for severe cases to manage prolonged symptoms.