Spring will be here before you know it. Trees and grasses will be in full bloom and produce large amounts of pollen. Tree pollens are at their highest from January until June, depending on rain and other factors, in Northern California.

The perils of pollens are known to most allergy sufferers. You can take action now if your symptoms worsen during allergy season.

Allergic rhinitis

Seasonal allergic rhinitis, often called “hay fever” affects more than 35 million people in the United States. Allergic rhinitis is triggered by "allergens," or substances that start an allergic response such as pollens. Allergic reactions to dust mites, cockroaches, pets and mold can worsen during allergy season.

Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Congestion
• Runny nose
• Itchiness in the nose
• Scratchy throat
• Watery/itchy eyes
• Itchiness in ears

Asthma and Allergies:
Allergic asthma is the most common form of asthma. It is worsened by inhaling allergens such as pollens, dust mites, pet dander, and mold. You can prevent asthma flare-ups by knowing and avoiding asthma triggers. Most people need more medicines during allergy season.

You can learn more about managing your child’s asthma by joining our pediatric asthma webinars --- from the comfort of your home. To learn more about asthma click here asthma featured Health Topic.

Prevention is the best tool:

• Do a thorough spring cleaning before spring arrives or have someone else do the cleaning or wear a mask. This will help reduce dust mite levels in the house.
• Expect higher pollen counts during springtime.
• Keep your home and car windows closed during high pollen times.
• When traveling in a car have the windows up and the air conditioning on.
• Pollen counts are higher on windy days. Try to reduce your time outdoors.
• Don't hang your laundry out to dry as allergens collect on them.
• Wear a filter mask to mow the lawn or rake the leaves or have someone else do it.
• Wash bedding weekly in hot water.
• Remove visible mold with non-toxic cleaning products.
• Don’t allow smoking in your home and car.

The best way to avoid seasonal allergy symptoms is to prevent them before they start. Kaiser Permanente suggests that you begin using allergy medicines before allergy symptoms occur. Many effective allergy medicines, such as the antihistamine loratadine and Zaditor eye drops, are available without a prescription. Prescription nasal sprays (fluticasone or Nasarel) are highly effective. They should be started before the allergy season for best results.

Your child should keep taking their medicines until the allergy season ends which is typically in July. Please note that it may take a few days to feel the full effects of your medicines. If you are taking these medicines and are still having symptoms, talk with your provider to see if you might benefit from further treatment.