What gives?

You may have seasonal allergies—or what's commonly called hay fever.

If you do have hay fever, it doesn't necessarily mean you're allergic to hay. The culprit could just as easily be a tree. That's because a variety of airborne pollens can set off allergy symptoms, depending on your location and the time of year. And one thing you'll notice is that those symptoms arrive with the seasons.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, hay fever is often triggered by:

- Tree pollen in early spring.

- Grasses during late spring and early summer.

- Weeds in late summer and fall.

Pollen is usually harmless, but if you have hay fever, your immune system mistakes pollen for an invader, triggering the release of chemicals (such as histamine) that lead to those uncomfortable symptoms.

If you think you might have allergies, tell your doctor. You may need a skin test or blood test to learn what you're allergic to. Then your doctor can recommend a treatment plan, which may include:

Avoiding your allergy triggers. Try to spend less time outdoors when pollen counts are high. You can find pollen counts online or get them through apps on your smartphone.

Taking over-the-counter or prescription medicines. Options include nasal steroid sprays and antihistamine pills. These medications generally work best when you start them just before allergy season begins.

Allergy shots (immunotherapy) might be another option. It takes time, but the shots can build up your body's tolerance and resistance to specific allergen triggers such as pollen, dust and pet dander. Many people who get allergy shots see their symptoms improve or even disappear.

Schedule an appointment with our Allergy (Adults & Peds) department by calling Dr. Lionel V. Bonini at 863-680-7486 (Watson Clinic Main) or Dr. G. Weyman Price at 863-647-4045 (Watson Clinic South).