Allergy season is here — and it's earlier and stronger than expected.More than 80 million Americans deal with itchy eyes, runny nose and other symptoms of seasonal allergies, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.The level of misery people will face depends on where they live and what they're allergic to, but there are things you can do to feel better.Pollen counts were high earlyDr. Rachna Shah usually starts looking at pollen counts in the Chicago area in April.
After that grasses pollinate, followed by weeds in the late summer and early fall.Some of the most common tree pollens that cause allergies include birch, cedar, cottonwood, maple, elm, oak and walnut, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Grasses that cause symptoms include Bermuda, Johnson, rye and Kentucky bluegrass.Pollen trackers can help you plan your dayThe best and first step to controlling allergies is avoiding exposure.