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Hay Fever

Hay Fever

Hay fever, otherwise known as Allergic Rhinitis, is a collection of symptoms, mostly in the nose and eyes, which occur when you breathe in something you are allergic to, such as dust, dander, or pollen.

What causes hay fever?


An allergen is something that triggers an allergy. When a person with Allergic Rhinitis breathes in an allergen such as pollen or dust, the body releases chemicals, including histamine. This causes allergy symptoms such as itching or swelling.

Hay fever involves an allergic reaction to pollen.
Similar reactions can occur with allergy to mould, animal dander or dust.

The pollens that cause hay fever vary from person to person and from region to region. Tiny, hard to see pollens more often cause hay fever. Examples of plants commonly responsible for hay fever include:

  • Trees (deciduous and evergreen)

  • Itchy nose, mouth, eyes, throat, or any skin area

  • Altered sense of smell

  • Runny nose

  • Tearing eyes

Symptoms that may develop later include:

  • Stuffy nose (nasal congestion)

  • Clogged ears and decreased sense of smell

  • Sore throat

  • Dark circles under the eyes

  • Puffiness under the eyes

  • Fatigue and irritability

  • Memory problems and slowed thinking


Natural Prevention & Management


Hay fever symptoms can sometimes be prevented by avoiding known allergens. The best way to ensure hay fever does not occur is to stay indoors as much as possible during pollen season. This usually occurs during spring and late summer.

Fast Facts!

  • Most trees produce pollen in the spring

  • Grasses usually produce pollen during the late spring and summer

  • Ragweed and other late-blooming plants produce pollen during late summer
    and early autumn


Top Tips

Use Bosisto's Nasal Spray - a natural saline solution with eucalyptus oil - to help clear sinus and nasal passages and make it easier to breathe.

Alternatively use Bosisto's Nasal Inhaler - the handy purse size is great for relief on the go!