What Is Hay Fever? Symptoms, Causes, and How to Treat It

 


Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common condition that affects millions of Australians each year. Despite the name, hay fever isn’t caused by hay and doesn’t cause a fever — but it can make you feel pretty miserable.

Whether you’re dealing with sneezing fits, itchy eyes, or constant congestion, understanding the triggers and treatment options can help you manage symptoms more effectively. And with telehealth and online prescriptions now available, getting relief is easier than ever.

What Causes Hay Fever?

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, happens when your immune system mistakes harmless substances in the air — like pollen or dust — as dangerous threats. Even though these particles aren't harmful to most people, your body sees them as invaders and overreacts.

Common allergens that trigger hay fever include:

  • Pollen – This is one of the most common triggers. It comes from grass, trees, and weeds, and is especially active in spring and early summer. Windy days tend to make symptoms worse because more pollen is circulating in the air.
  • Dust mites – These microscopic bugs live in bedding, carpets, and furniture. Their waste particles can easily become airborne and trigger allergies.
  • Animal dander – Proteins in the skin flakes, saliva, or urine of cats and dogs can lead to allergic reactions, especially if you’re around pets frequently.
  • Mould spores – Mould can grow in damp places like bathrooms, basements, or even inside air conditioners. The spores float through the air and can trigger symptoms just like pollen does.

When you breathe in these allergens, your body produces a chemical called histamine. This is part of your immune system’s natural defence — but in this case, it causes inflammation and irritation in your nose, sinuses, throat, and eyes, leading to sneezing, itching, watery eyes, or a blocked nose.

For many Australians, these symptoms are seasonal, peaking during spring. But others may experience hay fever all year round, especially if the triggers are indoor allergens like dust mites or pet dander.

Common Symptoms of Hay Fever

Hay fever symptoms can be frustrating, especially because they often feel like a lingering cold. But unlike a virus, hay fever is caused by allergens — meaning the symptoms will keep returning as long as you're exposed to the trigger (like pollen or dust).

Here’s what to look out for:

  • Frequent sneezing – One of the most common signs. It often comes in bursts, especially in the morning or after going outside.
  • Runny or blocked nose – You may feel congested, have a constantly dripping nose, or even both at the same time. This can make breathing through your nose difficult.
  • Itchy nose, throat, or eyes – That constant tickling or urge to rub your eyes or nose is a classic allergy response.
  • Watery, red, or puffy eyes – Eyes often become irritated and sensitive to light, especially if you've been rubbing them.
  • Post-nasal drip – This is when excess mucus runs down the back of your throat, causing irritation, coughing, or a sore throat.
  • Fatigue or sleep problems – Constant congestion can make it hard to breathe properly at night, which affects your sleep and energy levels during the day.

Unlike a cold, hay fever doesn’t go away within a few days. If your symptoms last more than a week, seem to follow a seasonal pattern, or get worse when you're around pets or outdoors, you’re probably dealing with hay fever — not a virus.

Luckily, treatment is available, and a quick telehealth appointment can help you get an online prescription (escript) or doctors certificate online if symptoms affect your day-to-day life.

How to Treat Hay Fever

✅ 1. Over-the-Counter Medications

  • Antihistamines: Help reduce sneezing and itching.
  • Nasal sprays: Decongestant or steroid sprays relieve inflammation and blockages.
  • Eye drops: Soothe itchy or watery eyes.

These are widely available at pharmacies and can be recommended by your doctor during a telehealth appointment.

✅ 2. Prescription Treatments

If over-the-counter options aren’t working, your doctor may recommend stronger medications. You can now get a prescription online — also called an escript — without needing to visit a clinic.

Just book an instant consult with an online doctor, and if appropriate, your prescription can be sent directly to your phone or email.

✅ 3. Allergen Avoidance

  • Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons.
  • Shower after being outdoors.
  • Use an air purifier or HEPA filter at home.

While it’s hard to completely avoid allergens, these steps can reduce flare-ups.

Can I Get Hay Fever Medication Through Telehealth?

Yes — telehealth appointments are a great option for hay fever treatment. You can speak to a qualified Australian doctor from home, get advice, and receive an online prescription or doctors certificate online if needed.

Need time off work or school because your symptoms are affecting your daily life? You can request a sick certificate online or dr certificate, all through a secure, easy process.

Final Thoughts

Hay fever is frustrating, but it’s manageable with the right approach. Whether you need prescriptions online, a quick telehealth appointment, or even a medical certificate, you don’t need to suffer in silence.

Hola Health and other trusted platforms offer fast, secure access to online doctors, escripts, and instant consults — so relief is always within reach.

 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Common Cold or Coronavirus? How Can You Tell the Difference?

  As winter sets in across Australia, many of us start experiencing familiar symptoms: a runny nose, sore throat, and a cough. But in a post-COVID world, even a mild sniffle can cause alarm. So, how can you tell the difference between a common cold and COVID-19? Knowing the key symptoms and when to book a doctor appointment — even through an online GP or telehealth doctor — can help you act quickly and appropriately. Similar, but Different: Symptoms Breakdown Both the common cold and COVID-19 are respiratory infections, but they’re caused by different viruses. The cold is usually mild and caused by rhinoviruses, while COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which can have serious complications, especially for vulnerable individuals. Symptoms between the common cold and COVID-19 , based on the comparison table: Runny or blocked nose : This is very common in the common cold, but only shows up occasionally in COVID-19 cases. So, a stuffy nose alone...
Read more

How Bulk Billing Works in Telehealth: No-Gap Doctor Visits Explained

Image
Bulk billing has made healthcare more accessible across Australia—but with the rise of telehealth , many patients are wondering: Can I see an online doctor for free? The good news is, yes—you often can, through bulk billed telehealth services . This blog breaks down how bulk billing works in telehealth , what “no-gap” doctor visits really mean, and how you can make the most of your Medicare benefits. 🩺 What Is Bulk Billing? Bulk billing means your doctor bills Medicare directly for your consultation, so you don’t have to pay anything out of pocket. It’s essentially a no-gap fee system. If your GP or specialist offers bulk billing, and you're eligible under Medicare, the entire cost of your visit is covered. 🌐 How Telehealth Changed Bulk Billing With the expansion of telehealth in Australia —especially after the COVID-19 pandemic—bulk billing has extended into virtual care. This means you can now see a doctor online , get prescriptions , medical certificates , or referr...
Read more

What’s Causing My Tummy Pain? Common Types of Abdominal Pain Explained

 Tummy pain, or abdominal pain, is something most of us have experienced at some point. But while some causes are minor—like gas or indigestion—others may signal a more serious condition that needs medical attention. So, how do you know what's causing your tummy pain and whether it's time to book a telehealth appointment or see a GP access near you? Let’s break down the most common types of abdominal pain, what they might mean, and when you should speak to an online doctor. 1. Upper Abdominal Pain Pain in the upper part of your abdomen—just below the ribs—is often linked to your digestive organs, like the stomach, liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. It can feel like a dull ache, sharp stabbing, or a burning sensation. Common causes include: Indigestion or acid reflux – This often feels like burning or discomfort after eating, especially spicy or fatty foods. You may also feel bloated or nauseous. Gallstones – These can cause sharp pain in the upp...
Read more