article_snippet.sent: The number of hayfever sufferers in the UK is predicted to reach 20 million this summer, up a third from last year as warm weather bathes the country.
article_snippet.sent: Experts told MailOnline that five million people are expected to fall victim to the symptoms  - which include streaming eyes, incessant sneezing and irritating itches at the back of the throat - for the first time.
article_snippet.sent: Around 20 million people in the UK are expected to suffer hayfever symptoms this summer, up a third from last year, experts told MailOnline .
article_snippet.sent: Dr Jean Emberlin, a leading pollen expert, told MailOnline that a 33 per cent rise in the number of people struck by hayfever this year could occur, 'depending on weather conditions'.
article_snippet.sent: High and very high pollen counts can trigger hayfever symptoms in people who have not had High and very high pollen counts before.
article_snippet.sent: Dr Emberlin said another contributing factor is that the average hayfever season is becoming longer, typically stretching from April to the end of August.
article_snippet.sent: Hayfever seasons in the UK are becoming longer, as warmer weather in spring and autumn means pollen is typically rife from March to the end of August August . '
article_snippet.sent: Hayfever is an allergic reaction to pollen and spores.
article_snippet.sent: Hayfever happens when the immune system mistakes these harmless airborne particles to be a danger and launches a defence against these harmless airborne particles.
article_snippet.sent: The body produces an antibody and histamine is released which causes the typical symptoms of sneezing, runny nose and eyes, an itching nose and mouth, and possibly a blocked nose.
article_snippet.sent: In preparation, hayfever sufferers are being encouraged to take action, stocking up on antihistamines and other treatments to lessen the impact of hayfever sufferers symptoms. '
article_snippet.sent: Steroids are often used to treat hayfever, but Steroids are best taken before the onset of symptoms.
article_snippet.sent: Dr Emberlin said: High and very high pollen (pictured under the microscope) counts can trigger hayfever symptoms in people who have not had them before' 'Antihistamines are also commonly used and it is a good idea to get them in and ready to use when the season starts. '
highlights_snippet.sent: Last year 15 million people fell victim to the symptoms of hayfever .
  