Spring Allergy Season 2026: Symptoms, Triggers & What to Do in an Emergency

As temperatures rise and trees burst into bloom across the UK, millions of people will find themselves reaching for the antihistamines.

But for some, spring allergies can trigger something far more serious than a runny nose and knowing what to do in those moments can make a real difference.

Why spring is the most challenging season for allergy sufferers

The UK pollen calendar is surprisingly unforgiving.

Tree pollen is often the first to strike, affecting roughly a quarter of all hay fever sufferers many of whom don’t realise their symptoms have already begun.

By the time grass pollen arrives in late spring, the season is in full swing, with near-constant exposure for those who are sensitive.

It’s important to understand that hay fever and anaphylaxis are very different conditions, but in some individuals, allergic triggers can escalate quickly.

Recognising the symptoms

Hay fever (medically known as allergic rhinitis) occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne pollen, releasing histamine and triggering a range of responses.

Common symptoms include:

Sneezing and nasal congestion
Itchy, red or watery eyes
Runny or blocked nose
Sore or scratchy throat
Headaches and sinus pressure
Fatigue and poor sleep
Worsened asthma symptoms
Coughing or wheezing

Who is most at risk?

People with asthma
Those with known severe allergies
Children and young people
Outdoor workers (construction, agriculture, education)
Pet owners and animal handlers

Important: For people with asthma, hay fever is not just an inconvenience. Unmanaged allergy symptoms can trigger an asthma attack which is a potentially life-threatening emergency. Knowing how to respond is essential, not optional.

Practical tips for managing pollen season

Timing

Pollen counts peak in the early morning and early evening. Plan outdoor activities for midday or after rain, when levels are lower.

Protection

Wraparound sunglasses, a hat with a wide brim, and a face mask all reduce pollen contact with eyes, face, and airways.

Indoors

Keep windows closed on high-pollen days. Shower and change clothes after spending time outside to avoid transferring pollen to bedding.

Medication

Start antihistamines or nasal steroid sprays before symptoms peak – your pharmacist can advise on the best option for your needs.

Asthma

If you have asthma, always carry your reliever inhaler during pollen season and review your asthma action plan with your GP.

Climate trends

UK pollen seasons are starting earlier and lasting longer due to climate change. Be prepared from January onwards, not just summer.

When allergies become an emergency

For most people, hay fever is manageable with antihistamines and common-sense precautions.

However, in a small number of cases – particularly those with allergic asthma or known severe allergies – exposure to pollen or other allergens can trigger anaphylaxis: a rapid, severe allergic reaction requiring immediate intervention.

Anaphylaxis can cause the throat to swell, breathing to become laboured, and blood pressure to drop dangerously.

Without prompt treatment (including use of an adrenaline auto-injector and a call to 999), it can be fatal.

Knowing how to identify and respond to anaphylaxis, and how to manage an asthma attack in the meantime, is a skill that could save someone’s life.

How to Recognise Anaphylaxis Quickly

Look for a combination of the following symptoms:

Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat
Tight chest or wheezing
Dizziness, confusion or collapse
Pale, clammy skin
Rapid pulse

Symptoms can develop rapidly and worsen within minutes.

Tip: If you live near the coast, an onshore sea breeze can bring welcome relief from pollen. But when the wind turns inland, “pollen loading” can cause a sudden spike in symptoms, especially in the south of England.

What Is Anaphylactic Shock and Why Is It So Dangerous?

Anaphylactic shock is the most severe form of anaphylaxis and represents a critical medical emergency.

It occurs when the body’s allergic response becomes so extreme that it causes a sudden and dangerous drop in blood pressure, meaning vital organs are no longer receiving enough oxygenated blood.

Without immediate treatment, this can quickly become life-threatening.

What Happens During Anaphylactic Shock?

During anaphylactic shock, the immune system releases large amounts of chemicals (including histamine), which trigger:

Widespread blood vessel dilation (causing blood pressure to fall)
Fluid leakage from blood vessels (leading to swelling and further pressure loss)
Airway constriction (making breathing difficult)

This combination places the body under extreme stress and can lead to collapse, unconsciousness, or cardiac arrest if not treated urgently.

Key Signs of Anaphylactic Shock

While symptoms can vary, signs that a reaction has progressed to anaphylactic shock may include:

Sudden drop in blood pressure
Weak, rapid pulse
Severe difficulty breathing
Collapse or loss of consciousness
Pale, cold or clammy skin
Confusion or unresponsiveness

Critical point: This stage can develop very quickly, sometimes within minutes of exposure to an allergen.

Be ready for more than just a sniffle

Spring is a reminder that allergic reactions exist on a spectrum from mild irritation all the way to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Whether you’re a parent, carer, teacher, or simply someone who wants to be prepared, knowing how to handle an allergic emergency is one of the most valuable skills you can have.

Our First Aid Courses cover the recognition and management of severe allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other acute emergencies giving you the confidence to act quickly and calmly when it matters most.

Anaphylaxis First Aid Training Course

Growing numbers of people are at risk from severe allergic reactions. This course improves knowledge of allergic triggers including foods, latex, drugs and insect stings and equips participants with the practical skills to provide lifesaving treatment.

It is designed specifically for those who work with or care for children and adults who are prone to anaphylaxis.

Who should attend?

School and nursery staff, childcare workers, parents and carers, healthcare assistants, and workplace First Aiders who could encounter someone experiencing anaphylaxis.

Course content

Allergic reactions including causes and recognition
Communication & casualty care
Managing an unconscious casualty
Auto-injectors
Resuscitation for all ages
Primary survey

Available Courses	Duration	Per Course	Per Person
Anaphylaxis Training Course	3 Hours	£240	£20

Please note:

Maximum of 12 people per course. All prices are subject to VAT. Terms and Conditions apply.