• Spring brings showers, flowers and suffering from allergies.spring image by arthur luhnev from Fotolia.com
  
  According to an article published in Health News, more than 35 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies. The month of April brings about more than showers and flowers upon its arrival each year. Along with the dawning of spring, April marks the beginning of spring allergy season for many allergy sufferers.
  
  

Pollen

• Pollen, airborne particles from grass, trees or weeds that wreak havoc on those who are sensitive to their effects, can cause multiple allergy symptoms. One of the most common side effects to those who are sensitive to pollen is the development of hay fever. Hay fever (Allergic Rhinitis) is caused by irritation of the mucous membrane which lines the nose and sinuses and can present itself in cough, wheezing, runny nose and congestion. Severe cases can also lead to conjunctivitis, disorientation and mental fatigue.
  
  

Mold Spores

• According to a 1999 study by the Mayo Clinic, approximately 37 million Americans suffer from mold allergy symptoms. When someone breathes in mold spores, the body's reaction can trigger hay fever and wheezing. Mold spores, mold seeds that are released into the air due to humidity or temperature changes, can live inside or outside of the home regardless of the home's cleanliness. Because they are invisible, most individuals do not know that they are breathing in mold spores until they develop symptoms. For the most part, allergy symptoms from mold are relatively mild and can include sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes. However, in some sufferers, exposure to mold can sometimes cause serious health problems such as chronic bronchitis, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis and asthma.
  
  

Dust Mites

• According to The Mayo Clinic, dust mites are microscopic insects, kin to spiders, who feed off of human skin and thrive in humid environments. Warmer days cause an increase in dust mites, which can live in carpeting, mattresses, sheets and blankets. Symptoms of dust-mite allergies can include asthma, itchy and watery eyes, atopic dermatitis and sneezing. Dust mites can be controlled by washing bedding at a temperature of at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit and by frequent vacuuming of the home.