Spring is about 5 to 6 weeks off for most parts of the U.S., though warmer weather is already starting to occur in southern states. And with spring comes the onset of seasonal allergy and asthma symptoms for millions of people who suffer from nasal allergies and asthma. But the good news is that you can take some easy steps to prevent allergy and asthma symptoms or at least to greatly lessen the discomfort they charge you.

Most seasonal allergies are caused by airborne allergens, such as grass, tree, and weed pollen and mold spores. Trees bloom first and are the biggest culprits in early spring allergies. In fact, they’re currently facing “cedar fever” in central Texas where my daughter lives, with blooming cedar trees sending out droves of cedar pollen. Grasses bloom next, in late spring / early summer. Finally, weeds and molds take over in late summer and early fall.

According to a recent article from the Saint Louis University School of Medicine, there are 5 main steps you can take to keep seasonal allergies and asthma symptoms under control:

1. Use antihistamines for relief. Avoid the older, first-generation products, such as Benadryl, however, as they can cause drowsiness and impaired function. Better choices over the counter are Claritin or Zyrtec, or ask your doctor for a prescription for a similar second-generation / non-drowsy antihistamine.
2. Keep your doors and windows closed. If the weather gets nice and you get spring fever, try to use the air conditioner instead of throwing open windows and doors. Your nose and airways will thank you for it.
3. Stay inside during the morning. If you like to exercise outdoors, try to schedule it for afternoon or evening, when pollen counts are lower.
4. If you’re traveling in your car, keep your windows up, for the same reasons spelled out in #2 above. You can also try running the air conditioner for a minute or two before you get in the car to help blow out any pollen or mold that has settled in since you last rode.
5. When you do come in from outdoors, shower and change your clothes. This will help get rid of any pollen or mold that may have settled on your hair or clothes while you were outside.

If you’ve done all those things and you’re still suffering, it’s time to talk with the doctor!

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