The season of itchy eyes, runny noses and sneezing is around the corner again.
Forecasts indicate that the levels this year of cedar and cypress pollen — the two most common causes of hay fever in Japan — are expected to be far higher than last year in many parts of the country.
While this is sure to come as bad news for the increasing number of people suffering from pollen allergy, doctors are urging sufferers to seek proper diagnosis so they can be treated effectively.