Latest news with #pollen
BBC News
4 hours ago
- Climate
- BBC News
Why your hayfever may be bad at the moment
Sneezing, itchy and running eyes, or a scratchy throat. All can take the pleasure out of a sunny summers day, and all could be due to pollen levels in your the next few days very high grass pollen levels are predicted across the respite should come for some from Sunday onwards as we move to slightly breezier, more changeable you're not on your own as pollen-induced hayfever affects approximately 13 million people in the UK and around 95% of those cases can be attributed to grass. We are currently just past the peak of the grass pollen season, which generally runs from late May to early we can expect regional variations in the length and potency of that across the northern Scotland it tends to be shorter, but in areas such as south-east England grass pollen can continue to affect some people all the way through until early not just grass pollen that could be the cause of those sneezes at the moment pollen and fungal spores are also on the rise as they head towards their summer peak. Whilst dry and warm weather are often responsible too, some types of fungal spores, such as Leptosphaeria can increase temporarily during you're very badly affected at the moment you might be pleased to know that this year grass pollen levels aren't expected to be above average over all. Met Office spokesperson Stephen Dixon said this is due to the UK weather in late spring where the combination of warm weather increased grass growth, but the dry conditions conversely reduced that growing potential."While short dry spells and high temperatures mid-season can increase pollen levels, over a prolonged period this could lead to depletion of the available pollen on the plants," he added. When are pollen levels at their highest? Pollen levels can vary from day to day, even hour to hour depending on weather are at their highest during dry and in warm weather, but can decline if the dry spell is a prolonged onset of rainfall helps to dampen down pollen, but the return of a dry and sunny spell can see a sudden rise in levels of day can be crucial too. Hayfever can be at it's worst early morning and from late afternoon onwards. On sunny days, these are the times when winds tend to be at their lightest and the pollen is concentrated in the lower atmosphere, close to nose and eyes. Is there anything I can do to avoid pollen? It's not an easy thing to avoid here in the UK.A first step could be to check the forecast where you are. Up to date forecasts are available on the BBC Weather website and app from late spring to early search for your location and you will find the latest data alongside the UV forecast. If you are particularly susceptible to hayfever try to avoid being outdoors early and in late in the day when pollen levels can be at their and changing your clothes once you've returned home can help to reduce the be mindful when hanging washing out on high pollen days. Pollen landing on clothes and sheets can then be easily brought don't forget our beloved pets. Limit contact or wash hands after handling them if they have also been you want to escape high pollen days sometimes a trip to the coast may help. However, you will need a location where there is a steady wind coming in off the sea and not the land. Is climate change affecting the pollen season? Like much of the natural world, our changing climate is likely to impact pollen levels in the UK in the years to a Government report on the health affects of climate change in the UK, external there are three ways a warming world could impact pollen patternsChanges in temperature and rainfall patterns could lengthen the pollen season and increase pollen is possible that pollen particles could become more potent, with greater amounts of the allergy causing agent on them.A changing distribution of allergenic plants across the UK, including invasive species, could see potential pollen levels increase in some areas.
The Sun
7 hours ago
- Health
- The Sun
Key sign your ‘hay fever' is actually new Covid strain as doctor reveals how to spot different symptoms
BRITS sneezing through summer could be facing more than just pollen. A new Covid strain is sweeping across the UK, and some of its symptoms are almost identical to hay fever, making it tricky to tell which one you've got. 2 The warning comes as the Met Office reports "very high" pollen levels across much of the country, while health officials confirm a near 10 per cent rise in Covid-related hospital admissions in England. Areas like London, Manchester, and Birmingham are particularly affected. Hay fever and Covid-19 can both cause sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, headaches, and even a loss of smell. But while hay fever is triggered by an allergic reaction to pollen, Covid is caused by a viral infection – and that difference can be crucial. Dr Luke Powles, Bupa's Associate Clinical Director, explains: "Despite hay fever being more common during the spring and summer, some people are affected by pollen from March to September. This can make it harder to tell if sniffs and sneezes are being caused by an allergy or an infection such as coronavirus." The latest Covid variant, known as NB.1.8.1 or "Nimbus", is fuelling the surge. NHS data shows 947 people were admitted to hospital with Covid in the week ending 31 May. So, what's the key symptom to watch for? A high temperature. This is common with Covid, but not with hay fever. The NHS says a fever means "you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)". Dr Powles confirms: "It is not likely for you to experience a raised temperature as a result of hay fever." And while hay fever can affect smell and taste, he says, "completely losing your ability to taste or smell is more likely to result from coronavirus." Another clue is how unwell you feel. Covid often leaves people feeling drained and seriously unwell, while hay fever – annoying as it is – tends to be milder. "Hay fever symptoms aren't usually serious and, generally, you won't feel too ill," says Dr Powles. Covid, however, can have longer-lasting effects. The NHS warns some people suffer from symptoms for weeks or even months – a condition known as long Covid. The illness can also cause stomach problems like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea – not something you'd get with hay fever. Fatigue, body aches and chills are also more likely to point to Covid than seasonal allergies. While hay fever typically affects the eyes and nose, Covid can have a much broader impact on the body. Experts are urging the public not to ignore the signs. If you suddenly feel worse than a typical allergy bout, or develop unusual symptoms like fever or stomach upset, it's best to err on the side of caution. "If you're unsure whether you're suffering from hay fever or Covid, it's wise to limit contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable," said a spokesperson for the NHS. Lateral flow tests are still available at some pharmacies or online, though not always free. Taking a test can help clear up the confusion and stop the virus from spreading further. Doctors also remind people that Covid symptoms can vary widely. Not everyone gets a cough or fever, and some only experience mild cold-like issues. That's why knowing your own health history and spotting any changes is key. 2
Yahoo
21 hours ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Rare 'pollen bomb' to strike Edinburgh as temperatures set to hit 27C
Edinburgh locals with seasonal allergies are set to face a challenging weekend - as the Met Office predicts a "very high" pollen count. Those with hay fever are no strangers to being forced indoors and closing their windows to avoid airborne pollen. The city has been enjoying hot and humid weather over the past few days with temperatures peaking at 27C on Saturday, but with the hot temperatures comes a high pollen count that will likely force those with hay fever inside. READ MORE: Edinburgh locals rage 'this is just wrong' as dozens of people dump cars at park READ MORE: Edinburgh locals praise 'lovely' Andy Murray after spotting him at shopping centre Met Office forecasters have predicted the "very high" pollen count for Friday and Saturday. Temperatures will cool slightly into the evening on Saturday with the heat set to finally break on Sunday. Pleasant 15C lows are expected in the early hours of Sunday, rising to a peak of 20C by 1pm. According to the Met Office, hay fever is the most common name for pollen allergy and it is most commonly caused by grass pollens, although other pollens can also trigger the symptoms Hay fever symptoms include frequent sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes and an itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears. Sufferers may also experience the loss of sense of smell, facial pain, sweating and headaches - although these symptoms are less common. Join Edinburgh Live's Whatsapp Community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages. The forecast for Friday reads: "A dry day with long bright or sunny spells. A warm day from the start and becoming hot by the afternoon especially for the Borders. Maximum temperature 29 °C." Forecasters predict for Saturday: "Largely dry and bright with the odd thundery shower on Saturday and remaining very warm or hot. Turning cooler during Sunday and Monday with sunshine and showers, heavy on Sunday." You can read the full forecast here.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Temperatures and pollen soar in heatwave conditions
TEMPERATURES are set to soar in Herefordshire today, rising over 30 degrees. And it is bad news for hayfever sufferers, with the Met Office warning of very high pollen counts today (June 19). With the morning starting off warm, with temperatures already in the teens, they are set to rise through the day, hitting a high of 31°C in Hereford by 4pm. It is also likely to be an uncomfortable night, with temperatures sticking at around 19°C through the night. And there will be little relief on Friday, with temperatures again rising to 31°C by 3pm and remaining high through the night into Saturday, and another day of very high pollen levels forecast. The Met Office said today will see lengthy sunshine and will feel hot, with conditions turning somewhat cloudier by dawn tomorrow but staying dry. Friday will be settled with further spells of strong sunshine, and remain hot, the Met Office said, while the outlook for Saturday to Monday is largely fine and dry with sunny spells. The Met Office said it will feel hot and humid to start, but turn fresher from the west from Sunday into Monday. Met Office forecasters warned earlier this week that the UK would be in heatwave conditions by the weekend, with the highest temperatures expected to exceed 30°C. Deputy chief meteorologist Tony Wisson said the settled weather and warm sunshine has allowed temperatures to rise day on day. "Temperatures will then rise further towards the end of the week as winds turn more southerly and even warmer air over continental Europe will be drawn across the UK," he said. "We could very well see several places exceeding 30°C, which will be the highest temperatures of the year so far.' Heatwave conditions are met in the UK when temperatures exceeding the heatwave temperature threshold for that location are met for at least three consecutive days. "Across much of the north and west of the UK this threshold is 25°C, but across Greater London and the Home Counties the threshold is higher, at 28°C," the Met Office said.
The Sun
2 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
The little-known reason you should NOT dry your laundry outdoors this summer
THE arrival of summer and the warmer weather is always welcomed for making laundry easier. Gone are the cold, dark nights with the heating on to dry the washing on airers inside. 1 Instead, we can finally get our clothes out on the washing line for a quick and energy-efficient dry. But for the 10 million Brits suffering from hayfever, experts say this is the worst thing we could be doing. The Met Office has warned that much of the UK will see "very high" pollen levels this weekend as temperatures soar. As a result, laundry experts have suggested it may be wise to stick to indoor drying for now. Nigel Bearman, home cleaning expert and founder of Daily Poppins, said: 'Hanging your clothes, bedding or towels outside on high pollen days is a recipe for itchy eyes and a stuffy nose. 'The wet laundry acts like a sponge, soaking up all the pollen. "It settles into the fibres and clings on as the fabric dries, meaning it'll end up in your bed, wardrobe and on your skin. "It's no wonder so many people have allergy flare-ups even in their own homes.' Laundry fibres trap pollen easily, especially cotton, linen and towels. Likewise, clothing lines, balconies and garden racks are all exposed to airborne pollen, especially on warm, breezy days. Savvy woman shares how she creates more drying space inside with £2.99 Home Bargains buy & it even works outside too Once indoors, pollen from the dried laundry can aggravate symptoms like itchy eyes, blocked nose and sneezing, even hours after exposure. To avoid this, Nigel says: 'On high pollen days, I always recommend drying your clothes indoors, ideally near a window or with decent airflow. If you're short on space, use a collapsible drying rack in a well-ventilated room." It might be slightly less convenient, but Nigel insists this simple switch could make a big difference to daily comfort, especially for those suffering from seasonal allergies. Extra tips to reduce pollen indoor s In addition, the laundry pro suggests checking the pollen forecast each day and avoiding drying clothes outside when levels are high. He also suggests washing bedding regularly at 60C to remove allergens that build up overnight. If you have pets, you should wipe them down after walks as their fur and paws pick up pollen just like laundry. Finally, vacuuming floors and upholstery regularly - especially if you've had windows open or brought in laundry from outdoors - will help to reduce extra exposure to pollen.
