Even if you do not live in one of the country’s allergy capitals, seasonal allergies are an uncomfortable reality for millions of Americans. Current research indicates that over 50 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies each year.

As warming spring temperatures activate plants in the environment, trees, grasses and weeds all release pollen in order to fertilize other plants. This causes pollen counts in the air to rise. Seasonal allergies like runny nose, nasal congestion and itchy or watery eyes are common symptoms that occur as the body is triggered to fight off these foreign allergens.

It’s hard to fight Mother Nature, but if you suffer from seasonal spring allergies, there are a few specific things you can do to minimize the unpleasant symptoms that accompany this time of year. Here are ten quick tips to help reduce your exposure to springtime pollen and better manage your seasonal allergies.

1. At home and in the car, close the windows and run the air conditioning if needed.
2. When pollen and mold levels are high, stay indoors as much as possible.
3. If you need to spend prolonged time outdoors, try wearing a pollen or dust mask.
4. Ask someone else to mow the lawn or rake the leaves.
5. Leave your outside shoes at the doorstep.
6. When you come inside, wash your hair and change your clothes.
7. Hose the pollen off your car and front porch/steps often.
8. Don't hang clothing or linens outside to dry.
9. Vacuum your home at least twice a week.
10. Take allergy medication as prescribed.

Adding these methods to your regular antihistamine regimen can help to reduce the severity and duration of common allergy symptoms like sneezing, nasal itch and runny nose.

Despite our best efforts, there are times when allergies can become more than just bothersome. They can be persistent, disrupt our daily lives, and even effect our sleep. In addition to the typical symptoms we associate with allergies, these allergens can also be the trigger of more severe reactions such as asthma attacks. In any of these cases, it is important to reach out to your primary care physician. In some cases, going to an allergist may be needed.