An allergy occurs when the body overreacts to the things which don't typically cause problems for most people. These things are called allergens and the body overreacts to the allergens which causes the symptoms of allergies. The most common allergens include pollen from trees, grass, and weeds. Most allergies occur in the spring, typically late April and May, and are often due to tree pollen. Allergies that occur in the fall, late August to the first hard frost, are often due to ragweed. Mold is a common cause of allergies and is common where water tends to collect, such as shower curtains, damp basements, and window moldings. It may also be found in rotting logs, hay, mulches, compost piles, and leaf piles. This allergy is typically worse during humid or rainy weather.

The best way to keep allergy symptoms in control is to minimize the contact with the things which trigger them. Typical allergy triggers include pollen from grass, trees, and weeds, animal dander, dust mites, and mold spores, both indoor and outdoor varieties. To avoid pollen, allergy sufferers should stay indoors during hot, dry, and windy days in the spring, summer, and fall. It is also best to stay indoors in the early morning when the pollen counts tend to be the highest. When an allergy to an animal is the case, is best to not touch the fur or feathers of the animal. Pet allergens may also be found in the saliva of the pet, especially in cats. The easiest way to avoid triggering pet allergies is to avoid animals altogether.

Dust mites are tiny microorganisms that live in dust. Dust mites eat the dead skin flakes and live in bedding, furniture, and carpets. Getting rid of carpets and taking extreme care to vacuum and dust is the best way to limit the number of dust mites in the home environment. Encasing pillows and mattresses in allergen proof covers may also help. Using a dehumidifier helps in some cases as dust mites prefer humid environments. Mold produces spores which are airborne and may trigger allergies. There are both outdoor varieties of mold that thrive within soil and dead leaves, plus is accumulates in dark, moist areas such as under bathroom or kitchen sinks and in damp basements. If mold is a trigger, it is vital to avoid working with garden soil or raking fall leaves.

There are a few additional ways to lower the exposure to pollen. Pollen clings to clothing, skin, and hair. By taking a bath or shower and changing clothes after being outside the chances are greatly reduced of having an allergic reaction. Taking herbs such as Echinacea and dandelion has been suggested to help allergy symptoms. Keeping windows closed during the day will also help lessen pollen within the home. By implementing just a few of these suggestions, allergy symptoms should lessen greatly. There should also be a reduction in the amount of allergy medicine required, but any medication changes should be discussed with the primary physician first.