Though the first day of spring is still a week away, those with seasonal allergies know that the harbingers of spring are already, quite literally, in the air.

If the sudden warm snap, which has triggered the release of a slew of plant pollens, has your eyes watering, nose running, and throat clogged, then you might have a spring allergy.

Spring allergy causes

Tree and grass pollens are the main cause of spring allergies. When the pollen enters the nose of an allergic person, the pollen grains are identified by the immune system as a foreign invader, triggering an immune response. Antibodies released by the immune system attack the pollen and release histamines, a chemical that causes allergy symptoms.

High pollen counts and windy conditions are associated with the largest allergy symptoms. On the other hand, rain knocks pollen out of the air and offers some allergy relief.

In some cases, seasonal allergies can trigger asthma. During an asthma attack, constricted airways make breathing difficult. Coughing or wheezing may occur, as well.

Am I allergic?

If you think that you have an allergy, you are not alone. In one survey, it was found that more than half of all Americans test positive for at least one environmental allergen.

Visiting an allergist is the easiest way to assess your allergy's severity and determine to what exactly you are allergic. The allergist will prick the skin or test extracted blood in order to determine allergy severity. In those with large allergy problems, allergy shots might be suggested.

Spring allergy symptoms –congestion, runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, dark circles under the eyes, scratchy throat, and cough – are often confused with having a cold or infection such as a sinus infection. However, allergies are generally not accompanied by muscle aches and fevers like most infections. Additionally, symptoms associated with allergies can last for months, while a cold, for instance, only lasts one or two weeks.

Protect yourself!

Avoiding allergens is the easiest way to minimize the effects of seasonal allergies. Significantly limiting outside exposure on days with a very high pollen count is especially important. Pollen counts are generally highest in the morning. If allergy tests have been conducted, it is easier to avoid the pollen or pollens that you are the most sensitive to.

Washing after going outside, keeping bed sheets and towels clean and vacuuming frequently are also solutions suggested for limiting reactions to allergens.

Antihistamines such as Allegra, Claritin, Clarinex, and Zyrtec work by lowering the body's histamine levels, thus reducing allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny noses, and itching.

Nasal steroids like Flonase, Nasonex, Nasacort AQ, and Rhinocort Aqua help to treat seasonal allergies by reducing congestion and swelling. However, some over-the-counter nasal sprays may be highly addicting; read labels with care if shopping. Prescription nasal sprays and oral decongestants provide alternatives to over-the-counter sprays.

Antihistamine eye drops may be used to treat itchy, watery eyes.

For those with serious allergies, allergy shots, sometimes given multiple times a week, can help reduce symptoms. In a few years, shots might be replaced by an allergen solution that is placed in liquid form under the tongue. The drops slowly build one's resistance to an allergen over time. The sublingual drops are currently undergoing clinical trials.