It’s hay fever season, and as you sniffle away next to an air purifier, you might be wondering why we haven’t cured such a common allergy.

Allergic rhinitis, as it’s scientifically known, has plagued people for generations. It's thought up to 24 per cent of Australians suffer from it.

Norman and Tegan run through what hay fever is, how we identified it and what can be done to treat it. 

This episode first aired on October 23, 2024. 

References:

• Allergic Rhinitis: A Review
• O Rose thou art sick… history of allergic rhinitis
• I’m considering allergen immunotherapy for my hay fever. What do I need to know?
• Ingestion of honey improves the symptoms of allergic rhinitis: evidence from a randomized placebo-controlled trial
• The Potential use of Honey as a Remedy for Allergic Diseases: A Mini Review
• Can you adapt to allergies or does the dog have to go?

You can listen to more episodes of the What’s That Rash? podcast with presenters Norman Swan and Tegan Taylor on the ABC Listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. We answer your questions on everything from TikTok wellness trends to wonder drugs and diet myths.