Hey, there.

I don’t think any of us are unhappy that spring is here, and summer not far behind. However, the season isn’t all rainbows and roses. It is also brings an unwelcome side-affect … allergies. Yep, its that time of year again. Few people will be spared the sneezing, watery eyes, headaches and list of other symptoms brought on by seasonal allergies.

In fact, as many as 50 million people in the United States suffer from allergies, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). Nearly 36 million of those people have seasonal hay fever. That’s a lot of tissues!

But it doesn’t have to be a painful season. You can take action to cut down your exposure to spring allergy triggers like pollen, grasses and molds. Here are some suggestions courtesy of the AAAAI:

• Do a thorough spring cleaning - windows, book shelves and air conditioning vents collected dust and mold throughout the winter that can provoke allergy symptoms
  
• Postpone outdoor activities until later in the morning. Pollens are highest between 5 and 10 am
  
• If possible use air conditioning instead of having windows opened
  
• Don't hang your laundry out to dry. Allergens will collect on them
  
• Do not mow the lawn or rake the leaves without a filter mask
  
• Try to shower and wash your hair every night before going to bed

Weather Plus also has a bunch of other allergy resources in our Health and Wellness section. Plus, you can stay in control this season by checking out your local pollen and mold count at the National Allergy Bureau Web site.

Hope that helps. Remember to stay positive … at least it’s not cold anymore!