Understanding Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies (hay fever/allergic rhinitis) occur when the immune system overreacts to airborne pollen from grasses, trees and weeds. In Australia, spring and early summer (September–December) is the peak season, particularly in Melbourne and other southeastern cities. Symptoms: sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, nasal congestion and fatigue.

Most Effective Treatments

  1. 1

    Daily non-sedating antihistamine

    Fexofenadine (Telfast), loratadine (Claratyne) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are non-drowsy antihistamines available over the counter. Take daily during allergy season — they work best when taken consistently, not just on bad days. Cetirizine can cause drowsiness in some people; fexofenadine and loratadine are truly non-sedating for most. Try different ones if one is not effective — people respond differently.

  2. 2

    Nasal corticosteroid spray (most effective for nasal symptoms)

    Fluticasone (Flixonase), budesonide (Rhinocort) and mometasone (Nasonex) are available over the counter at pharmacies. These are the most effective treatment for nasal hay fever symptoms — more effective than antihistamines alone for nasal congestion, sneezing and runny nose. The spray takes 1–2 weeks of daily use to reach full effectiveness, so start before your allergy season begins. Use daily during the season even on good days.

  3. 3

    Eye drops for itchy, watery eyes

    Antihistamine eye drops (Zaditen, Albalon A) or mast cell stabiliser drops (sodium cromoglycate) provide direct relief for eye symptoms. Apply before going outside during high-pollen periods. Wearing wraparound sunglasses also physically blocks pollen from reaching the eyes.

  4. 4

    Reduce pollen exposure

    Check the daily pollen count (Melbourne Pollen Count, PollenForecast.com.au). On high-count days: keep windows and doors closed, stay inside during peak times (early morning and dry windy days), shower after being outside to remove pollen from hair and skin, change clothes after outdoor exposure, dry laundry inside rather than on the line.

Sublingual immunotherapy (allergy desensitisation)For severe or persistent allergies, immunotherapy can significantly reduce sensitivity over time. Available as sublingual drops or tablets prescribed by an allergist. Takes 3–5 years of daily treatment but provides long-term relief beyond the treatment period. Worth considering for people with severe allergy symptoms that significantly impact quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seasonal allergies: symptoms start within minutes of pollen exposure, itchy eyes and sneezing are prominent, no fever, symptoms persist for weeks during the season, respond to antihistamines. Common cold: symptoms develop gradually over 1–3 days, sore throat often present, yellow or green mucus after a few days, fever possible, typically resolves in 7–10 days, does not respond to antihistamines. If symptoms persist beyond 10 days or worsen after initial improvement, see a GP.
Yes — thunderstorm asthma is a real and potentially dangerous phenomenon, particularly in Melbourne. During certain thunderstorms in the grass pollen season, pollen grains are broken into tiny fragments by the storm and carried at ground level in concentrated amounts. People with grass pollen allergies and mild or undiagnosed asthma can experience severe asthma attacks. On days with forecast high grass pollen and storm conditions, people with allergies should take their antihistamine and nasal spray, stay indoors with windows closed, and have a reliever inhaler accessible.