HAY FEVER sufferers in Tayside and Fife are in for a torrid time over the next few weeks as the grass pollen season peaks in this area.

Grass pollen affects 95% of the estimated 12 million sufferers in the UK and the allergen’s season peaks from mid-June until early July in north Scotland.

A Dundee-based allergy expert has warned victims that those who have waited until the onset of symptoms —such as a runny nose, violent sneezing bouts and wheezing—before seeking help may have left it too late to effectively control their hay fever.

Professor Brian Lipworth of the asthma and allergy research group at Ninewells Hospital says that for the majority of sufferers the correct administration of anti-histamines and steroid nasal sprays is sufficient to ensure their summer is not ruined.

“Anti-histamines and nasal sprays are available over the counter now and, as there is very little difference in price between that and getting them by prescription, there is no need to bother your GP,” he said.

“These simple one-a-day medicines are enough to prevent symptoms in most people, but they should have been taking them since April or May to make them effective.

“The more we know about hay fever the better we are able to treat it,” added Professor Lipworth.

“We are desperately seeking sufferers to volunteer for a series of trials to monitor their symptoms and anyone interested in helping us should contact us on Dundee 425597.”