Stuffy noses. Watery eyes. Sniffles. Seasonal allergies affect about 40 million people in the United States—and right now for us here in Virginia, springtime allergies are hitting with full force.

To help reduce your suffering from common allergy triggers like pollen and mold spores, try these tips from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America:

• Start taking medications to control your seasonal allergies as early as possible—which can help keep your response from escalating as the season progresses.

• Wear a protective mask when you’ll be working outdoors, especially when mowing the grass, gardening, and raking leaves.

• Stay informed about pollen levels, and plan more of your outdoor activities on days when pollen counts are lower and it’s not as windy—if you can.

• Change your clothes or shower to remove pollen as soon as you can after getting home, to reduce the irritants you’re exposed to inside.

For help with your symptoms, and more advice on how to minimize your seasonal allergies, as always, talk with your doctor about the best options for you and your family.