Hay fever sufferers have been warned about a 'pollen bomb' set to trigger allergies.
Forecasters have predicted summer rain following the recent heatwave, which creates the perfect conditions for grass to flourish.
This is especially true for Merseyside, as this week will bring rain showers before the sunshine returns once more.
Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen, typically when it comes into contact with your mouth, nose, eyes and throat. Pollen is a fine powder from plants.
Max Wiseberg, creator of HayMax allergen balm, told the Mirror: “Wetter weather forecast for the next few days, after the long dry spell, will cause grass to flourish. It will produce loads more pollen, triggering a huge pollen explosion from Monday.”
Over 20 million sufferers face difficulty this summer. A Met Office poll of 2,000 this year revealed 41% suffer so badly it ruins their whole summer.
The pollen count shows high levels today across much of England.
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The Met Office has warned of high levels in the South and Midlands, and moderate levels in the North later this week.
Doctors advise sufferers to use nasal rinses and avoid grassy open spaces – especially in the early morning and early evening when pollen levels are highest.
