For most Southwest Floridians the tree pollen season brings on the most serious allergic reactions. Dr. Larry Castillo is an allergist and immunologist associated with Lee Memorial Health System. He says, “We’re actually in a lull right now. So this is not a bad allergy time period. The biggest allergy time period is just on the down turn which is the tree pollen.”

But that doesn’t mean that you’re off the hook when it comes to other allergies. “Right around March, April is when the grasses and the weeds start picking up and they will continue through November and December,” says Dr. Castillo.

While not as many people suffer from grass and weed allergies Dr. Castillo says they can have some uncomfortable side effects. “Anything from the typical nasal allergy symptoms, sneezing, congestion, post nasal drip, recurring sinus infections, coughing.” He also says to keep an eye on any cold-like symptoms you may experience this summer. It could mean that you’ve developed new allergies. “Especially with nasal allergies. If you think you’re recurring colds and you’re an adult the average adult should not have more than three colds a year.”

There are several new over the counter medications that are effective for many allergies. Talk with your physician about which ones may be right for you.