Newswise — As gardening enthusiasts head for their yards, so do millions of pollen and mold spores, triggering sneezing and wheezing for those who suffer from seasonal allergies.

An estimated 50 million Americans have some type of allergy. Seasonal allergies " also called allergic rhinitis or hay fever " are one of the most common, affecting 10 percent to 30 percent of the population. The condition is caused by an allergy to the pollen from trees, grasses, weeds or the spores of molds. Typical symptoms are sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, runny nose and a burning sensation on the palate or in the throat. Exposure to these allergens also can trigger asthma.

"Most people are not allergic to the bright and colorful flowering plants that are usually insect-pollinated, because these produce pollens that are larger, heavier and stickier," said Richard W. Weber, M.D., chair of the Aerobiology Committee of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). "Wind-borne pollinating plants, including trees, grasses and weeds, are more likely to cause an allergic reaction. They produce pollen that is light and almost invisible. Released in large quantities for reproduction, the pollens can be easily inhaled into the nose or caught in the eyes.

"Native plants are already adapted to a climate and are often easier to grow since they do not require extensive watering, fertilizer or pesticides. Disease-resistant plants are less likely to produce mildew, rust and black spot, which can cause allergies," Dr. Weber said.

Depending on where you live, the pollen season usually lasts from March through October, with most plants having the same pollination period each year, with slight shifts due to weather conditions.

The ACAAI provides the following additional tips to help gardeners with seasonal allergic rhinitis reduce their exposure to pollen and mold, so they may enjoy the beauty of their lawn and garden:

-- Avoid gardening when pollen counts are high. Peak pollen times depend on the plant, the weather and your geographical location. A local allergist can help determine which plants trigger your allergy symptoms and can provide practical tips on how you can avoid them.

-- Take antihistamines or nasal sprays before you begin gardening rather than after symptoms start.

-- Wear a pollen mask and gloves to limit exposure.

-- Avoid touching your face and eyes while working outdoors.

-- Watch for rain showers that can temporarily clear pollen from the air. Brief thunderstorms, however, can actually increase pollen counts for a short period.

-- Wash hands often and rinse eyes with cool water after coming indoors to remove clinging pollen. Wash hair at night to prevent pollens from getting into bedding.

-- If you do have high-pollen producing plants, keep them away from front or back doors, bedroom windows or other high-traffic areas.

If your garden causes you to sneeze and wheeze, an allergist can help you identify what triggers your allergy symptoms and will assist you in developing the most effective treatment plan.

Patient information on allergic diseases including allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma is available by calling the ACAAI toll free number at (800) 842-7777 or visiting its Web site at http://www.acaai.org.

The ACAAI is a professional medical organization comprising nearly 5,000 qualified allergists-immunologists and related health care professionals. The College is dedicated to the clinical practice of allergy, asthma and immunology through education and research to promote the highest quality of patient care.

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