If you suffer from spring allergies, you don’t need us to tell you it’s allergy season.

Here in Craig, tree pollen has been in the air since February and remains high at the time of this writing, in early May. The trees will be done pollinating soon, but then the grasses will start up. Grass pollination lasts through August, which is when other common flora, such as sagebrush, begin releasing their pollen.

And according to the USA National Phenology Network, which tracks climate and plant activity across the country, pollen season is getting longer and more intense as our planet warms. One study showed a 21% increase in pollen from 1990 to 2018, with more increases on the way.

So, depending on your particular allergies, you might be in for many months of itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion.

What can you do to manage your symptoms and feel better? Here are some tips for navigating allergy season and enjoying your summer.

• Track pollen levels.
  Websites like pollen.com show current pollen counts by zip code. When pollen levels of something you’re allergic to are high, consider avoiding outdoor activities on those days. Or wear a mask for outdoor chores.
• Minimize pollen indoors.
  You can’t control the pollen outside, but you can manage it inside. When you’re experiencing allergies, keep your windows closed as much as possible. Also remember that you can bring pollen inside on your clothes and body. Wash your clothing and bedding often, and take showers to remove pollen from your skin and hair. Use sinus rinses to clear your nose and sinuses of pollen. HEPA air purifiers also help remove pollen indoors.
• Try over-the-counter medications.
  Antihistamines such as Benadryl, Zyrtec and Claritin can help lessen your symptoms. They’re most effective when taken every day—not just on days that your allergies are bothering you. Starting them before allergy season begins is a good preventive measure. These medications can also have side effects, however, such as drowsiness, headache and dry mouth.
  Steroid nasal sprays such as Flonase and Nasonex reduce swelling inside your nasal passages and sinuses. They can help reduce sneezing and runny nose. These medications can take a couple of weeks to start working fully, so be patient.
• See your primary care provider.
  If your allergies are severe or diminishing your quality of life, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with a Memorial Regional Health primary care provider. Testing can identify which allergens in particular are causing your symptoms. Some medications, such as inhalers and corticosteroids, are available only by prescription. Allergy shots (allergen immunotherapy) are also an option in some cases.