For most people, spring is the season of renewal, heralding the long, warm days of summer. For those with allergies to pollens, it marks the beginning of a long period of discomfort - sometimes even severe illness.
Pollen allergy is suffered by at least 10% of the world's population. Up to one-third of people with hay fever later develop asthma.
When and where am I exposed to pollen?
Meteorological changes affect the degree of pollen exposure and thus the degree of allergic reaction. This means that for people who suffer from hay fever, rainy days are "safer" because pollens are flushed to the ground, instead of remaining in the air. Conversely, sunny, windy days usually result in more air-borne pollens.
Many European countries have daily information on pollen counts during the season, which should be available through your local allergy patient organisation.