Doctor says 'keep windows closed' as 'perfect storm' making pollen season worse

Doctor says 'keep windows closed' as 'perfect storm' making pollen season worseBritain is facing a surge in eye problems, including conjunctivitis and styes, a doctor has warnedCommentsNewsSteven Smith Content Editor10:38, 17 Apr 2026View 3 ImagesThere's a bad combination, a GP has said(Image: milorad kravic via Getty Images)If you've noticed your eyes becoming watery, itchy and red more frequently, you're far from alone. Experts are warning that Britain is experiencing a spike in eye complaints - from conjunctivitis to painful styes - as a dangerous mix of pollution and climate change supercharges the allergy season.‌Dr Nisa Aslam, a GP and adviser to GoldenEye, said: "Pollen season has arrived, but pollution and climate change are creating a 'perfect storm' for allergy sufferers. Symptoms are starting earlier, lasting longer and hitting harder than ever.‌"In fact, research suggests that hay fever has tripled in the last 20 years. This means that eye conditions like conjunctivitis, styes and blepharitis, of which allergies are risk factors, are also becoming more common."‌Pollution is rendering pollen even more potent, amplifying the effects on those with allergies.View 3 ImagesHay fever season is here(Image: dowell via Getty Images)Dr Aslam explained: "According to government guidance on air pollution and airborne allergens, air pollutants - particularly from traffic fumes and other emissions borne out of manufacturing and product processes, greenhouse gases as well as everyday irritants like dust, mould, and cleaning products - can bind to pollen, exacerbating allergies and lowering the threshold at which people react.‌"This means response symptoms can kick in with smaller amounts of allergens. At the same time, climate change is causing a longer pollen season, meaning there is a greater concentration of pollen floating around."Even people who've never previously suffered from allergy...