Allergy Seasons Are Shifting: How to Cope with Longer Pollen Peaks

Climate change is changing pollen seasons.

Pollen seasons are getting longer and more intense due to climate and pollution changes. Planning ahead and simple indoor steps can help.

Who this helps: People with hay fever, asthma or seasonal allergies.

Key takeaways

• Check pollen and air quality forecasts daily.

• Optimise indoor air quality.

• Ask your GP about preventers or immunotherapy if symptoms remain severe.

What’s changing

• Warmer UK temperatures lengthen the tree and grass pollen seasons.

• Air pollution makes pollen grains more potent and irritates airways.

Practical tips

• Use Met Office or GOV.UK pollen forecasts.

• Ventilate homes when pollen counts are low.

• Shower and change after being outdoors.

• Consider HEPA filters in bedrooms.

• Keep shoes at the door to avoid spreading pollen inside.

When to seek help:If you develop wheezing, breathlessness or poorly controlled asthma, contact your GP. For acute breathing difficulty, call 999.

References

• UKHSA (2024) Will climate change make pollen worse? Available at: https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2024/02/23/will-climate-change-make-the-effects-of-pollen-worse/

• Met Office (2025) Pollen forecast 2025. Available at: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/blog/2025/met-office-pollen-forecast-2025-what-you-need-to-know