Many people will need medication, but there are other ways to reduce your symptoms, says allergy specialist Dr. Karen Binkley.

So, really the first step in helping people feel better is we try to get them to reduce their exposure to the pollens as much as possible.

That means making your home a pollen-free zone by keeping doors and windows closed.

You can also track pollen indoors on your hair, clothes, and shoes, so wearing a hat, wraparound sunglasses, and washing clothing when you get home helps.

Don't forget to wipe down your pets and avoid drying laundry outdoors.

Dr. Binkley says even a one-hour exposure to pollen can trigger symptoms for days.

For some people, they may wanna consider using a salt water rinse, and it just rinses the pollen out of their nose when they come in.

So, will certain foods ease your symptoms?

A good diet is always important for good health, but the impact on the allergies is probably fairly minimal.

She says HEPA filters have shown some benefits, but the studies are mixed.

No objection, but would I spend a lot of money on it, and hoping it would be the cure all?

I probably would not spend a lot of money on it.

Dr. Binkley says the jury is also out on using acupuncture for allergy relief.

Two other approaches she does recommend include propping the head up during sleep and using nasal strips.

They can be used at night to just kind of hold the nose open, and that sometimes gives some temporary relief for nasal congestion and will get them over the hump.

For anyone with allergies, it's important to know your triggers, so seeing your doctor or allergy specialist is recommended.

With Sunnyview, I'm Monica Matys.