GPs reveal why this hay fever season is worse than ever! Here is the simple step to shield yourself
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Spring’s arrival usually brings brighter days and blooming flowers—but for many Australians, it also signals the start of months of sneezing, wheezing, and itchy eyes.
Doctors have warned that this year’s hay fever season could be harsher than ever, with changing climate patterns fuelling longer pollen cycles.
And with thunderstorm asthma risks also looming, experts say preparation is more critical than ever.
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) said there was growing evidence that climate change was extending pollen seasons in some of the nation’s biggest cities.
In Melbourne, the season had already started earlier and was lasting longer, with residents facing greater exposure to pollen.
RACGP president Dr Michael Wright stressed that GPs were ready to support patients through the challenging months ahead.
‘Hay fever is very common, and it's vital patients who experience allergic rhinitis and asthma manage their conditions very carefully,’ he said.
He advised sufferers to consult with their GP and ensure they had an asthma plan in place.
‘Rather than waiting for asthma flare-ups to occur as the seasons change and pollen counts grow in coming weeks and months, it's important to have a plan ready, including preventive medications,’ he said.
Wright described Melbourne as the ‘allergy capital of the world’, with almost a third of its population affected by allergic rhinitis linked to pollen.
But he noted that the issue was not confined to Victoria alone.
‘However, this isn't a problem isolated to Melbourne, people in communities nationwide should be ready,’ Wright said.
‘Thunderstorm asthma typically strikes in our south-eastern states from October to December, so now is the time to be prepared.
‘People with allergy issues are at increased risk, so again these patients should talk to their GP about starting hay fever treatment and potentially asthma prevention ahead of time.
‘It's best to be prepared, and your GP is there ready to help.’
While pollen season can leave many battling sniffles and watery eyes, it’s not always easy to tell whether it’s hay fever or just a cold.
Watch this quick explainer to learn the difference and make sure you’re treating the right condition.
Source: Youtube/NKC Health
If you’ve noticed your hay fever symptoms flaring up earlier or lasting longer than usual, you’re not imagining it.
Researchers have been tracking surprising changes in pollen patterns that may explain why allergy seasons are shifting.
This fresh insight adds another layer to understanding why so many are struggling more than before.
Read more: 'We were a little surprised': Experts explain why your allergies might be worse than ever
As pollen counts rise, the real question is—are you ready for the season ahead?
Doctors have warned that this year’s hay fever season could be harsher than ever, with changing climate patterns fuelling longer pollen cycles.
And with thunderstorm asthma risks also looming, experts say preparation is more critical than ever.
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) said there was growing evidence that climate change was extending pollen seasons in some of the nation’s biggest cities.
In Melbourne, the season had already started earlier and was lasting longer, with residents facing greater exposure to pollen.
RACGP president Dr Michael Wright stressed that GPs were ready to support patients through the challenging months ahead.
Climate change driving longer pollen seasons. Image source: Pexels/Tima Miroshnichenko | Disclaimer: This is a stock image used for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual person, item, or event described.
‘Hay fever is very common, and it's vital patients who experience allergic rhinitis and asthma manage their conditions very carefully,’ he said.
He advised sufferers to consult with their GP and ensure they had an asthma plan in place.
‘Rather than waiting for asthma flare-ups to occur as the seasons change and pollen counts grow in coming weeks and months, it's important to have a plan ready, including preventive medications,’ he said.
Wright described Melbourne as the ‘allergy capital of the world’, with almost a third of its population affected by allergic rhinitis linked to pollen.
But he noted that the issue was not confined to Victoria alone.
‘However, this isn't a problem isolated to Melbourne, people in communities nationwide should be ready,’ Wright said.
‘Thunderstorm asthma typically strikes in our south-eastern states from October to December, so now is the time to be prepared.
‘People with allergy issues are at increased risk, so again these patients should talk to their GP about starting hay fever treatment and potentially asthma prevention ahead of time.
‘It's best to be prepared, and your GP is there ready to help.’
While pollen season can leave many battling sniffles and watery eyes, it’s not always easy to tell whether it’s hay fever or just a cold.
Watch this quick explainer to learn the difference and make sure you’re treating the right condition.
Source: Youtube/NKC Health
If you’ve noticed your hay fever symptoms flaring up earlier or lasting longer than usual, you’re not imagining it.
Researchers have been tracking surprising changes in pollen patterns that may explain why allergy seasons are shifting.
This fresh insight adds another layer to understanding why so many are struggling more than before.
Read more: 'We were a little surprised': Experts explain why your allergies might be worse than ever
As pollen counts rise, the real question is—are you ready for the season ahead?
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