HAY FEVER sufferers are facing an awful April — as experts warn a pollen bomb is set to explode earlier than expected.
Birch trees, one of the first to offload pollen into the air, are believed to be two weeks ahead of their usual date.
Expert Max Wiseberg said the news should worry the millions of people with the allergy.
He said: “Birch is arguably the most problematic tree of them all for hay fever sufferers.”
The birch, close relative of alder and hazel trees, affects one in four hay fever sufferers who are allergic to tree pollen.
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Mr Wiseberg, from Bedford, warned people to start using nasal sprays and antihistamines now to give themselves time to build a resistance.
The early onset of tree pollen means there are fears grass pollen, which normally starts in May, might begin earlier too.
A spokesperson for leading ‘wellness’ platform Fresha said “Around 44 per cent of all British adults are impacted by allergies, and hay fever is one of the most common allergies.
“Grass pollen is the most common allergen, which normally is at its strongest from May to July.
“However, trees are mainly prone to causing the allergic reaction we know to be hay fever, at its strongest from February to June.
“Allergies cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to swelling and skin irritation.
“When an allergen enters your system, the immune system over-reacts and prompts the release of histamine, causing symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and wheezing.”
