Spring Health Tips: Hay Fever, Skin Checks and Wellbeing

Spring Is a Season of Change for Your Health

As temperatures rise and daylight stretches out across September, October and November, spring brings a mix of health considerations, from allergies to sun exposure. A few small adjustments can help you feel better through the season change.

Managing Hay Fever and Spring Allergies

In Australia, most pollen allergies come from introduced grasses and trees rather than native species, according to the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA). Common symptoms include a blocked or itchy nose, watery eyes and throat irritation, and for some people, pollen can also trigger asthma symptoms.

A few practical steps can help: check your local pollen forecast on high-risk days (Wollongong residents can reference the Sydney Pollen Count, the nearest regional forecast), stay indoors during high pollen or windy conditions, keep car and home windows closed, wear sunglasses outdoors and rinse your eyes and face after time outside. If you have asthma, ASCIA recommends keeping up your regular preventer medication through spring rather than only using it during flare-ups. If hay fever is affecting your sleep or daily life, it's worth discussing management options with your GP.

Rising UV and the Case for a Skin Check

Spring's longer, sunnier days mean UV levels climb quickly, often before the weather feels warm enough to think about sun protection. It's worth reviving sun-safe habits early. Spring is also a sensible time to book a skin check, particularly if it has been a while since your last one or you've noticed any new or changing spots.

Moving More as the Days Get Longer

Extra daylight hours can make it easier to build movement into your day, whether that's an evening walk or getting outside on weekends. Regular activity is linked with better sleep and mood for many people, and small, consistent habits tend to be easier to sustain than big changes.

A Seasonal Check-In With Your GP

Spring is a practical time to review any repeat prescriptions, catch up on preventive checks such as a skin check or blood pressure review, and make sure your vaccination records are up to date after winter. To book a seasonal check-in, call Crown West Medical on (02) 4228 4155 or book through HotDoc.

FAQ

When does hay fever season start in NSW? Symptoms often begin as grasses and trees start pollinating in September and can continue through summer, depending on the season and your local area.

Can I manage hay fever without seeing a GP? Many people manage mild symptoms with avoidance strategies, but if symptoms are persistent, affecting sleep, or you also have asthma, a GP visit can help identify a management plan suited to you.

Should I get a skin check every spring? How often you need a skin check depends on your skin type, history and risk factors. Your GP can advise on a suitable schedule for you.

Does spring affect asthma? For some people with asthma, spring pollen can trigger flare-ups. Keeping up regular preventer medication is a commonly recommended approach, but check with your GP about what's right for you.

This article is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please speak with your GP before making any changes to your health care.