Hay fever sufferers are being warned ahead of what is predicted to be a 'severe season' with high levels of pollen forecast.
Research following a study from Worcester University has revealed the UK's pollen hotspots this spring. These figures are based on the average pollen count for spring seasoned pollens.
In the past week, the Met Office issued most of England, Wales and Northern Ireland with a 'high' or 'medium' pollen count alert. Currently, the Met Office has rated the North West as having a 'medium' pollen count.
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However, on Saturday, April 15, the pollen count for the region will change from 'medium' to 'high'. For those taking holidays in the UK, it's worth noting the South East of England, is the worst for hay fever sufferers, with a total pollen integral - the average daily concentration of pollen over a given period of time - of 14,131 across the 92-day spring period from March to June and an average daily pollen count of 153.60.
The second highest region is East Midlands, with a total pollen integral of 12,026 and an average daily pollen count of 130.72. In third place is the West Midlands, with a total integral of 6,403 and an average daily count of 69.60.
Northern Ireland has the lowest pollen count of only 1,225 across spring, with a daily average of 13.32. A spokesperson for Online.Casino, who compiled the data, commented on the findings. They said: "This spring residents across the South East are likely to suffer most from symptoms of hay fever and asthma.
“Due to the South East being heavily populated, urban pollution from diesel fumes tends to supercharge pollen particles, making them even more allergenic. The South East has been known to have the most problem plants.
"Hazel is the most widespread, whilst Surrey is a birch hotspot. Meanwhile Northern Ireland is the region with the least amount of pollen. Currently, the forecast for cities including Derry has very low to no pollen.
“Approximately 20% of UK residents are hay fever sufferers, according to NHS data. It is extremely common for people to experience symptoms around this time of year, including eczema flare-ups, itchy eyes and runny noses.
"Whilst taking over-the-counter antihistamines daily can help to reduce allergy symptoms, if you suffer badly, it is also recommended to try and minimise general exposure to pollen.”
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