Sneezing that is repeated and prolonged is the most common feature in the hay fever sufferer. A stuffy and watery nose is also a main sign of hay fever. Other symptoms include redness, swelling and itching of the eyes; itching of the nose, throat and mouth and itching of the ears, or other ear problems. Breathing difficulties at night due to obstruction of the nose may interfere with sleep. These symptoms differ in degree according to the individual, ranging from mild to severe. When severe, they are very uncomfortable, make it difficult to carry out daily tasks, and may cause loss of time from work and school. Health complications from repeated hay fever attacks, year after year, may be an even more serious problem.

Chronic sinusitis -- inflammation of the sinus cavities -- is one of these problems. Another is nasal polyps, or growths. In addition, significant percentages of people with hay fever have or develop asthma.