It's happening—delicate snowdrops nodding in the breeze, maple buckets being hung (and re-hung), and the first pussy willows bursting forth from their winter cocoons.

 

For most people, these earliest signs of spring are welcome reminders that longer, warmer days are ahead. But, for the 81 million American adults and children with seasonal allergies, those same seasonal heralds are more of a red flag than a thing of beauty.  

 

And, thanks to the particularly mild winter experienced in New England, the season of sneezing may be upon us a bit earlier than usual.

 

While there is no cure for seasonal allergies, you can take steps NOW to reduce your body's reaction to pollen and allergens before they intensify. Most allergy medications—including nasal steroid sprays and antihistamines—are more effective if they are in your system before you are exposed to any triggers. Taking your medication 1-2 weeks before allergy season begins is ideal. 

 

To keep your symptoms at bay, take your medications consistently once grasses, trees, and flowers begin to produce pollen grains, which travel by air into your nose, eyes, mouth, and lungs. Other steps you can take to minimize your reaction include: 

Common Spring Allergy Symptoms

If you're still suffering after trying these measures and over-the-counter medication, contact your doctor. Lynn Mann, MD, is a pediatrician at SVMC Northshire Campus.