As the UK moves into spring, many people begin to experience the familiar and sometimes dreaded symptoms of hay fever. Also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, hay fever is an allergic reaction triggered by airborne pollen from trees, grass and weeds. While it is often thought of as ‘just a runny nose,’ the reality is that it can significantly affect the ears, nose and throat (ENT) and impact daily quality of life. Understanding how these symptoms develop, and how they can be managed, is key to controlling the condition effectively.
What causes hay fever?
Hay fever occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies harmless pollen as a threat. In response, the body releases histamine, which causes inflammation in the nasal passages, throat and eyes. This leads to the classic symptoms of sneezing, congestion, itching and a runny nose.
In the UK, symptoms typically begin in March and can last until September depending on pollen levels and weather conditions. Warmer temperatures and climate change have also contributed to longer and more intense allergy seasons, with approximately 1 in 4 adults now experiencing symptoms at some point in the year.
How hay fever affects the ears, nose and throat
Nose symptoms
The nose is usually the most affected area. Inflammation of the nasal lining leads to:
- Persistent sneezing
- Nasal congestion or blockage
- Excess mucus or runny nose
- Reduced sense of smell
These symptoms occur because the nasal passages become swollen and over-sensitive to airborne allergens.
Ear symptoms
Many people are surprised to learn that hay fever can also affect the ears. The Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the nose, can become inflamed or blocked due to nasal swelling. This can cause:
- Ear pressure or fullness
- Temporary hearing reduction
- Clicking or popping sensations
- Discomfort during swallowing or yawning
In some cases, fluid build-up in the middle ear can also increase the risk of infection or contribute to balance issues.
Throat symptoms
Post-nasal drip is a common consequence of hay fever, where excess mucus drains down the back of the throat. This can lead to:
- Throat irritation or soreness
- Persistent cough
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- A constant need to clear the throat
These symptoms are often worse at night and can disturb sleep quality.
Hay fever and long-term rhinitis
When symptoms persist beyond the seasonal period, the condition may develop into perennial allergic rhinitis. This is often triggered by year-round allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, or mould.
Chronic rhinitis can cause ongoing nasal inflammation, reduced smell, and long-term congestion. Over time, untreated rhinitis may contribute to complications such as sinusitis, nasal polyps, or recurrent ear problems.
Prevention and everyday management
Although hay fever cannot be cured, symptoms can often be significantly reduced with proper management. Useful strategies include:
- Reducing pollen exposure: Keep windows closed during high pollen days and avoid drying clothes outdoors.
- Barrier protection: Applying petroleum jelly around the nostrils can help trap pollen before it enters the nose.
- Showering after outdoor exposure: This removes pollen from skin and hair.
- Wraparound sunglasses: These help protect the eyes from airborne allergens.
- Regular nasal rinses: Saline sprays can wash allergens from the nasal passages.
Medical treatment options
Pharmacy and prescription treatments are highly effective for most patients. These include:
- Antihistamines to reduce allergic response
- Steroid nasal sprays to reduce inflammation
- Decongestants for short-term relief
- Eye drops for itchy or watery eyes
For more persistent or severe cases, specialist treatment may be recommended, including immunotherapy (desensitisation). This works by gradually training the immune system to tolerate allergens over time.
When to seek ENT advice
If symptoms are severe, persistent, or affecting your quality of life, it may be time to consult an ENT specialist. Chronic nasal congestion, recurrent sinus infections, or ongoing ear pressure may indicate underlying conditions that require medical assessment.
At The ENT Clinic, we regularly see patients with complex allergy-related ENT symptoms and can provide tailored treatment plans to improve long-term outcomes. Hay fever is far more than a seasonal inconvenience. It is an inflammatory condition that can affect the entire ENT system, from nasal breathing to ear pressure and throat irritation. With the right combination of prevention, medication, and specialist care, most people can achieve excellent symptom control and enjoy spring and summer with minimal disruption.
