According to the charity Allergy UK, grass pollen is the most common allergen and typically occurs between May and July, but tree pollen season runs from February to June. Weed pollen can also cause symptoms from June to September.

Whichever allergen triggers you, the treatment options are the same, and Dr Watson advises prevention rather than cure.

1. Medications

“Hay fever can be tricky to treat,” she advises. “The best thing to do is start taking a good antihistamine early in the season and continue taking it throughout summer and autumn to try to minimise the effects of the histamine. Antihistamines work by blocking the histamine receptors in your body, therefore reducing the symptoms of hay fever.”

There is a range of antihistamines readily available, but if you’re concerned about your symptoms, always seek medical advice.

Hay fever season: how to cope with sneezes and itchy eyes this summer