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Health: Allergies back in full bloom

Seasonal allergy symptoms often feel like a cold that won't quit. You don't have to spend the entire season miserable, says Dr. Thomas Van Osdol, an allergist/immunologist with the Dupage Medical Group in Illinois.

"It helps if people start taking medication before the onset of the spring allergy season and stay a step ahead of the symptoms," Van Osdol says. "Those people tend to fair better throughout the season if they are proactive."

Tree pollens

Culprits: Walnut, box elder, cottonwood, elm, cedar mulberry, oak, maple and sycamore trees.

Drug treatment: Antihistamines such as Zyrtec and Claritin can reduce sneezing and nasal itching but don't help with congestion. Nasal sprays are another option.

Without drugs: Avoid these allergens by limiting time spent outdoors when the pollen counts are the highest, usually between 5 and 10 a.m. Get an allergy alert forecast at www.pollen.com.

Grass pollens

Culprits: Timothy, June, orchard, red top and bluegrass are among the most potent grass pollen offenders.

Drug treatment: Zyrtec and Claritin also work for grass pollens, as do intranasal steroid sprays as long as they are used consistently.

Without drugs: Limit time outdoors in the mornings and keep windows and doors shut. If you have a grass lawn, use a mask when mowing. Plant low pollen-producing ground cover, such as iris moss and bunch.

Outdoor molds

Culprits: Springtime's dry, windy weather can make mold a problem for allergy sufferers, especially when the snow melts after rainfall.

Drug treatment: Zyrtec and Claritin, nasal sprays or allergy shots.

Without drugs: Stay indoors after heavy rainfalls. Be aware of mold or mildew lurking in carpeting in your bathroom and kitchen. Use a humidifier and avoid cutting grass.

Pet dander

Culprits: Pollen, mold and dust can get into pet hair. Cat and dog dander, saliva and urine can all cause allergic reactions.

Drug treatment: Claritin and Zyrtec, nasal sprays or allergy shots.

Without drugs: Clean your pets after you bring them in the house, or wash them with allergen shampoos and keep them indoors when pollen counts are highest in the morning.

Dust

Culprits: Dust is made up of pet dander, pollens and mold. In addition, dust mites can trigger allergies.

Drug treatment: Over-the-counter antihistamines help.

Without drugs: Keep the windows shut as much as possible and clean with a mask on.