Cutting down all the oak trees in your yard won't help, Gillham says, because the pollen that's triggering your symptoms can be produced by trees miles away. At home and in your car, keep the windows closed and the air conditioner running. Consider buying air filters specially designed to trap pollen. Pollen activity is greatest between 5 and 10 a.m. If you want to enjoy the outdoors, go in the afternoon or go to the beach, especially when there's a sea breeze bringing in fresh, pollen-free air. If symptoms are severe, consider seeing an allergist to confirm the problem and get more aggressive treatment.
Effective treatments are available.
Not that pollen allergies are anything to sneeze at. Some afflicted people develop asthma, which can recur yearly during pollen season and become chronic. Asthma symptoms include coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. It can be disabling and occasionally fatal and deserves medical attention. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.