Hayfever Symptoms or Asthma: Know The Difference

What is hayfever?

Hayfever, otherwise known as Allergic Rhinitis, is an inflammatory response to airborne allergens like grass and tree pollen. While it primarily affects the nose and eyes, the respiratory system is one continuous circuit.

When allergic inflammation is active “upstairs” (in the nose and sinuses), it often increases sensitivity “downstairs” (in the lungs). This irritation makes the lower airways reactive, which is why hayfever symptoms often acts as a gateway to asthma symptoms like chest tightness or a whistling wheeze.

Are my symptoms hayfever or asthma?

While hayfever causes sneezing and nasal congestion, there are some red flags symptoms that may suggest asthma:

• Wheezing: A high-pitched whistling sound, usually when breathing out.
• Breathlessness: Feeling short of breath during routine activities, like climbing stairs.
• Chest Tightness: A feeling of heaviness or a “band” tightening around the chest.
• Persistent Cough: Especially a cough that worsens at night or in the early morning.
• Variable Symptoms: Breathing issues that flare up with exercise, cold air, or high pollen counts.

Why does hayfever get worse in the spring and summer?

Spring and early summer often bring a surge in respiratory distress. The warmer months create a “perfect storm” for the lungs:

1. High Pollen Counts: Direct irritation of the airway lining
2. Increased Activity: More time spent outdoors, often exercising in unfiltered air
3. Thunderstorms: Thunderstorm asthma can occur when rain breaks pollen grains into tiny particles that are inhaled deeper into the lungs
4. Dry Air: Warm air can dry out the mucus membranes, making them more sensitive to triggers

For many, seasonal allergies are a mere seasonal nuisance. However, if you are feeling tight-chested or struggling for breath, it is vital not to dismiss these symptoms as just pollen.

In many cases, hayfever can unmask or trigger underlying asthma. Identifying this early is the key to preventing a minor seasonal irritation from escalating into a serious respiratory event.

When to Seek Specialist Advice for Hayfever Symptoms

Asthma cannot be reliably diagnosed through symptoms alone as symptoms overlap with various other lung conditions. UK clinical guidance (NICE) emphasizes the need for objective testing to confirm a diagnosis and ensure you receive the correct treatment.

Consider seeing a Respiratory Specialist if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Your symptoms have persisted for more than three weeks
• Over-the-counter hay fever treatments are not relieving your chest symptoms
• You are waking up at night due to coughing or tightness
• Your breathing feels “different” or more laboured than in previous years

Don’t let your breathing hold you back this summer. If your chest feels heavy or your cough won’t clear, seek an expert opinion today.

Article produced by

Syed Hassan

Respiratory Medicine

KIMS Hospital

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