What is hayfever?

A disruption to daily life

Discover exactly what is happening in your body, identify common Australian seasonal triggers and explore the best options to help you feel better.

LEARN

Quick facts

  1. Hayfever (allergic rhinitis) affects nearly 1 in 4 people, based on Australian survey data*.
  2. Symptoms include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, and itchy or watery eyes, which can significantly affect quality of life.
  3. Seasons matter - pollen peaks in spring to early summer, with strong grass-pollen periods in the south-eastern states.


*Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). Allergic rhinitis. Available at: aihw.gov.au

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What exactly is hayfever?

Hayfever is an allergic response in the lining of your nose and eyes, occurring when your immune system reacts to allergens. The result is the familiar cluster of nasal and eye symptoms.

KNOW YOUR TRIGGER

Types of hayfever

1

Seasonal

Symptoms flare during certain times of the year, most often due to grass, weed and tree pollens.

2

Perennial

Symptoms occur all year, often caused by indoor triggers like dust mites, animal dander and mould spores.

When is it worse?

Australia does not have a single hayfever season. Climate, vegetation, and weather patterns determine whether symptoms appear for a few months or persist across the year.

VIC, NSW, SA, TAS

South-Eastern Australia

VIC, NSW, SA, TAS

South-Eastern Australia

Seasonal allergies peak in spring, driven by grass pollen. The highest risk typically runs from October to December, with November often the worst.
   
QLD, NT

Northern Australia

QLD, NT

Northern Australia

In much of Queensland and the Northern Territory, hayfever is often year-round rather than seasonal. Warm temperatures, humidity, and frequent rainfall support ongoing grass pollen and mould spores. Symptoms often worsen after rain, during humid periods, and through summer storms. Queensland Health notes allergic rhinitis in subtropical regions often lacks a clear seasonal pattern.
   
SOUTHERN WA & NT, NORTHERN SA

Western & Central Australia

SOUTHERN WA & NT, NORTHERN SA

Western & Central Australia

Western & Central Australia follows a spring pattern similar to the south-east, usually September to November. Inland and central regions experience fewer classic pollen peaks, with symptoms more often triggered by dust, wind, dry grasses, and environmental irritants.
   
The Allergy Cascade

When symptoms snowball

When you encounter a trigger, mast cells in your nasal lining release histamine, which binds to H1 receptors and drives sneezing, itching, a runny or blocked nose, and watery eyes. Understanding this cascade is key to selecting an effective treatment^.

^Zoabi Y et al. Biomedicines, 2022;10(10):2486

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practical tips What Helps

Medicines commonly used in Australia

  • Non-sedating antihistamines are commonly used to help relieve symptoms like sneezing and itching.
  • Intranasal corticosteroid sprays are effective for nasal symptoms when used under guidance.
  • Decongestant sprays can provide fast relief but are generally recommended for short-term use only.
  • Allergen immunotherapy is specialist-directed and can work over time to reduce symptom severity.
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Treatment comparison guide

Option How it works Suitable for Considerations
Non-sedating antihistamine Blocks histamine at H1 receptors Sneezing and itchy eye symptoms Best for cases without nasal symptoms. Some people still feel mild side-effects
Intranasal corticosteroid spray Reduces nasal inflammation Blocked or runny nose, daily control Works best with consistent use under professional recommendation
Orally-dosed natural products May help relieve nasal congestion, itchy eyes, sneezing, and runny nose Herbal option to treat nasal symptoms such as sneezing and congestion as well as itchy eyes Uses evidence based on individual ingredients. Benefits may not be felt by all users
Decongestant nasal spray Constricts nasal blood vessels Short-term decongestion Provides short-term relief. Best for short-term use only
Saline spray Flushes allergens and clears mucus Gentle support for all ages Best used as a supportive therapy alongside other interventions
Nasal spray with natural active that stabilises mast cells Helps prevent histamine release at the source People seeking a natural, non-drowsy option Check age suitability and follow usage guidance on the label. Consider whether the product has been clinically trialled for harsh Australian conditions

Alternative options explained

Saline rinses

Clears pollen, dust, and mucus from nasal passages to provide gentle, immediate relief.

Lifestyle measures

Reduces daily allergen exposure through simple habits like showering after being outdoors, closing windows, and using HEPA filters.

Diet and hydration

Supports overall immune system health through proper nutrition and consistent fluid intake.

BreathMor®

Harnesses natural mast cell stabilising technology to prevent histamine release before symptoms even appear.

When to see a health professional

  • Your symptoms persist, are frequent, severe, or not improving with over-the-counter care.
  • You have asthma that worsens in spring or during storms.
  • You are considering immunotherapy or a personalised plan.
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What is BreathMor®?

BreathMor® is a non-drowsy nasal spray that targets seasonal allergies at the source.

Backed by Australian clinical research and formulated with a patented, plant-based active ingredient, it provides day and night support without drowsiness or sluggishness. BreathMor® works by stabilising mast cells, reducing the cascade of symptoms for temporary relief of sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes.

Learn more

Hayfever FAQs

1

Is hayfever really that common in Australia?

Yes. Prevalence has increased to 24% in 2022, up from 19% in 2017–18 and 16% in 2001.

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). Allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Available at: aihw.gov.au

2

Why does hayfever spike in spring?

That is when grass pollen peaks in many regions, particularly in the south-east.

3

Do antihistamines work for a blocked nose?

They help with many symptoms but may be less effective than nasal steroid sprays.

Speak with your healthcare provider when deciding between these options.

4

Are there natural options available?

Yes. Saline nasal sprays, environmental and lifestyle changes, as well as the nasal spray BreathMor®, formulated with a natural cinnamon extract, are all effective, non-drowsy options to help combat allergic rhinitis with a more natural approach.

More questions?

Learn more