Hay fever
CONCERNS
For anyone who battles hay fever through the season, the sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes can be disruptive and in western NSW, where the grass and crop pollen season runs long, it affects a lot of people. If the usual approaches aren't managing your symptoms, it's worth having a conversation about what other options may be available.
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What triggers hay fever?
Hay fever is an allergic response, most often triggered by:
Grass pollen:
The main cause in regional NSW, peaking spring to summer.
Tree and crop pollen:
Including canola, wheat and native trees.
Dust mites:
A common cause of year-round symptoms.
Animal dander:
Skin flakes from cats, dogs and horses.
Mould spores:
Indoors and outdoors, especially after rain.
Family history:
Allergies tend to run in family history.
Understanding hay fever
Hay fever - allergic rhinitis, is the immune system overreacting to harmless airborne particles like pollen. When they're breathed in, the body releases histamine, which causes the familiar sneezing, runny or blocked nose, and itchy, watery eyes. Some people also get an itchy throat, tiredness and poor sleep, and it commonly worsens asthma in those who have it.
It can be seasonal, driven by pollen and worst in spring and early summer, or perennial - year-round, usually from dust mites, pets or mould. Western NSW has a particularly long pollen season because of its grasslands and cropping, which is why symptoms here can run from August through to the new year.
For most people, the first steps are avoiding triggers where possible and using over-the-counter options such as antihistamines and nasal sprays, with advice from a pharmacist or GP. For those whose symptoms aren't managed with these approaches, other options exist and whether any of these are suitable for you is something we assess carefully at consultation, taking your full medical history into account.
Areas we can help with
seasonal hay fever
Symptoms that flare in spring and summer.
Seasonal hay fever is driven by pollen - mainly grasses in this region, along with crops and trees. It typically starts in late winter or spring, peaks through the warmer months, and eases as pollen counts drop. Windy, dry days tend to be worst, and symptoms often ease after rain.
nasal symptoms
Sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, and post-nasal drip.
The nose is usually the most affected area - repeated sneezing, a clear runny discharge, blockage that makes breathing through the nose difficult, and mucus dripping down the back of the throat. Ongoing congestion can disturb sleep and contribute to tiredness during the day.
year-round
Congestion and sneezing that never fully settle.
Perennial allergic rhinitis is usually caused by indoor allergens - dust mites, pet dander or mould - rather than pollen, so symptoms persist regardless of season. It's often worse first thing in the morning and at night, and can be mistaken for a constant cold.
eye symptoms
Itchy, red, watery or swollen eyes.
Allergic conjunctivitis often occurs alongside nasal symptoms. The eyes become itchy, red and watery, and the lids can swell. Rubbing makes it worse. It's particularly common with grass pollen, and can be the most bothersome symptom for people who work outdoors or drive for long periods.
What to expect at your consultation
A hay fever consultation begins with a full medical history your symptoms and when they occur, what you've already tried, any asthma or other conditions, and all current medications. This matters because it determines whether any option we offer is suitable for you, and some people will be better served by their GP.
Your nurse will talk through what may be contributing, whether first-line approaches have been fully explored, and what options might be appropriate for your situation. If we think you'd be better managed by your GP or a specialist, we'll say so.
Under Australian advertising guidelines (TGA), we're unable to discuss specific treatments on our website, so options and costs are always discussed in person.
Treatments we offer for hay fever
At W.D.I Clinic, treatment options for hay fever may be considered as part of a comprehensive approach. Suitability is always determined during a required consultation, and treatment options are discussed in person. All medical procedures carry risks, and results vary between individuals.
Frequently asked questions
What triggers hay fever?
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It's an allergic reaction to airborne allergens such as pollen, grass, dust mites and animal dander, which causes sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes. In western NSW, grass and crop pollen are the most common seasonal triggers.
What should I try first?
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For most people, avoiding triggers where possible and using over-the-counter options such as antihistamines and nasal sprays are the first steps, with advice from a pharmacist or GP. Our consultation is for those whose symptoms aren't managed by these approaches.
Is this instead of seeing my GP?
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No. A GP should remain your first point of contact for hay fever, particularly if you have asthma or other conditions. Our approach may be an option for some people alongside GP care, and we'll refer you back to your GP if that's the more appropriate path.
Who is suitable for treatment?
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Suitability is assessed individually at your consultation, where your nurse will take a full medical history. Not everyone will be suitable, and that's discussed openly.
How long does it take to work, and how long does it last?
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This varies between individuals and is discussed at your consultation.
How long should I allow for my appointment?
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Please allow around 45–60 minutes for your initial consultation.
Does W·D·I Clinic offer fine lines and wrinkles consultations near me?
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W·D·I Clinic is based in Dubbo and regularly travels to locations across Western NSW. Visit our Locations page to see upcoming clinic dates and find the nearest location to you.
What triggers hay fever?
Hay fever is an allergic response, most often triggered by:
-
Grass pollen: The main cause in regional NSW, peaking spring to summer.
-
Tree and crop pollen: Including canola, wheat and native trees
-
Dust mites: A common cause of year-round symptoms.
-
Animal dander: Skin flakes from cats, dogs and horses.
-
Mould spores: Indoors and outdoors, especially after rain.
-
Family history: Allergies tend to run in families.