The HSE has given advice to hay fever sufferers as the pollen count rises across the country.
Health chiefs have issued extra information for those who may be concerned about telling apart the symptoms of hay fever and Covid-19.
If you normally get hay fever, you will be familiar with the typical signs and symptoms, which usually occur about the same time every year.
The HSE added that while there are some similarities between coronavirus symptoms and those brought on by hay fever, there are ways to tell the difference.
Typical hay fever symptoms include:
- sneezing
- coughing
- a runny or blocked nose
- itchy red or watery eyes
- itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears
While there are some similarities between the symptoms of coronavirus and hay fever, there are also ways to tell the difference.
Hay fever symptoms get worse when you are exposed to certain triggers like pollen, weeds or grass.
Hay fever does not cause a high temperature and most people with hay fever do not feel unwell.
While coronavirus can cause symptoms in your upper airways such as loss of smell or a blocked nose, it is usually associated with a high temperature, aches and pains and a cough.
Over the counter medicines from your pharmacy can help to treat the symptoms of hay fever. If you take steroid nasal sprays you should continue to do so.
Talk to your GP if you have severe or persistent symptoms.
