From October to December, high grass pollen levels in Victoria bring hay fever for many people – and on some days, the risk of epidemic thunderstorm asthma.
Hay fever: more than a runny nose
Sneezing, an itchy or blocked nose, and itchy, watery eyes can affect sleep, concentration and work. Good control is possible, and your GP can help you find the right plan.
- Antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays, used correctly and regularly through the season
- Eye drops for itchy, watery eyes
- Advice on reducing pollen exposure
- Referral for allergy testing or immunotherapy (desensitisation) where appropriate
What is thunderstorm asthma?
During certain thunderstorms, grass pollen can be broken into tiny particles that are breathed deep into the lungs. This can trigger sudden, severe asthma – even in people who have never had asthma before. People with hay fever, current or past asthma, or undiagnosed asthma are at the highest risk.
How to lower your risk
- If you have asthma, take your preventer as prescribed and keep your reliever puffer with you
- Have an up-to-date asthma action plan from your GP
- Treat your hay fever – good control may lower your risk
- Check the thunderstorm asthma forecast on the VicEmergency app or website during grass pollen season
- On high-risk days, stay indoors with windows and doors closed, especially during and just before the storm
When to seek help
If you or someone else has trouble breathing and it is not easing with a reliever, call Triple Zero (000) and start asthma first aid.
Read more about our Hay Fever Consultations.
Get your hay fever and asthma plan sorted. Book online any time or call 03 9088 8177 (24/7). Lilydale Doctors, 104 Main Street, Lilydale. Open Mon–Fri 9am–6pm, Sat 9:30am–1:30pm.
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