Spring is almost in the air and that unfortunately means sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion and other symptoms associated with seasonal allergy reactions. According to The American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology, roughly 7.8 percent of adults suffer from seasonal allergies every year. Instead of waiting on the allergy rush to hit you, here are some tips on how to prepare for them this spring season and keep your allergies in control:

1. Know Your Allergy Triggers

Allergies can strike at any time depending on what you are allergic to. Seasonal allergies usually occur when your immune system overreacts to the presence of allergens in the environment, including pollen. Different plants, such as trees and flowers, produce pollen at different times of year – for example, tree pollen season is in early spring, whereas grass pollen is prevalent in summer and ragweed pollen causes most fall allergies. By identifying which types of pollen you’re allergic to, you can work out approximately when to expect your allergies to kick off and start taking steps to manage symptoms. The best way to discover what allergens trigger you is to visit your local allergist.

2. Watch The Local Pollen Reports

Keep an eye on local pollen counts every day, so you’ll know exactly when allergy season kicks off in your area. Be sure to monitor which days will have higher pollen levels and schedule indoor activities to avoid triggering your sinuses. You can also check out your local weather forecast considering that dry, windy days usually have higher pollen counts; whereas rain tends to clear pollen from the air.

3. Reduce Your Pollen Exposure

Plan to keep windows and doors shut on days with high pollen counts and avoid hanging outdoor activities, if possible. Instead, plan on a fun indoor activity - such as making crafts or cooking a new meal. Another great tool for seasonal allergies is to ensure your air conditioning unit is fitted with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to help trap allergens from the air.

Wearing a hat and sunglasses when you head outside will also limit the amount of pollen that blows into your eyes (plus, they’ll protect you from harmful UV rays at the same time!). If you need to spend the time outdoors, you may even want to consider wearing a face mask if pollen counts are particularly high to protect your sinuses.

4. Drink A Cup Of Green Tea

Did you know that green tea contains natural antihistamines that can assist in your fight against allergies? Researchers in Japan identified a compound in green tea that, in laboratory tests, blocks a key cell receptor involved in producing an allergic response. Additionally, enjoying a steaming hot cup of tea soothes a scratchy throat and loosens mucus at the same time.

5. Stock up on Sinupret Adult Strength For Sinus Support

Sinupret® Adult Strength Tablets are a safe and effective natural product supported by strong clinical studies to promote strong nasal passages and sinuses. Prepare for seasonal allergies by ensuring that your sinuses are supported through any allergen that might cross your path! Our product combines five traditional herbs that provide all natural sinus support for when you need it the most this allergy season.