Brace yourself for Spring Allergies

Springtime DC is a beautiful time of year with the Cherry Blossoms blooming, however, it also brings spring allergy season.  Approximately 7% of US adults have seasonal allergies. Typical environmental allergens including trees, pollens, grasses, dust mites, mold, and ragweed. Experts predict that this season may be shorter  and delayed due to the prolonged winter in the Northeast but it may be more intense. Typical allergy symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, and itchy watery eyes.  It can also exacerbate asthma symptoms. Common measures you can take to decrease your allergy symptoms include avoidance such as limiting your time outdoors when the pollen is heavy or using a mask to filter particles.  Treatment options include over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal steroids.  Immunotherapy is another option  to reduce your allergy symptoms long term. You can track the pollen forcast at:

http://www.accuweather.com

http://www.pollen.com