Hay fever is a condition which affects hundreds of thousands of people in Ireland

Also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, it can be very debilitating.

Symptoms include runny nose, congestion, irritation of the throat and itchy or watering eyes.

Hay fever is caused by a high pollen count or by fungal spores. It can be managed by taking a number of steps to avoid exposure, such as keeping an eye on pollen count and staying indoors as much as possible, especially during pollen peak times (between 10am and 4pm).

Rubbing Vaseline into the nose helps keep pollen out, and wearing sunglasses can also stop it getting into your eyes. Limiting mucus-congesting foods can also be helpful, as well as taking antihistamines.

Dr Ray Walley joined us for our weekly medical slot to explain more about the condition.