Spring is here and everyone is anxiously awaiting warmer weather and thinking of spring gardens. For millions of allergy and asthma sufferes this time of year can trigger symptoms unless they are prepared to deal with them.

Approximately 35 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, nasal congestion, and scratchy throat. Allergies can also trigger asthma symptoms of coughing, chest tightness and wheezing.

A carefully thought out plan of avoidance measures, medication and often immunotherapy (allergy shots) can help turn spring into a wonderful, enjoyable season for the allergy sufferer. Now is the time to see the allergist to learn what causes your spring-time symptoms and what you can do to lessen your symptoms this year.

Visit the National Allergy Bureau to learn more about pollens that cause your spring allergies and to follow pollen counts in different parts of the country.