Itchy eyes have you crying over the mild weather? You probably have a seasonal allergy.

The most common types of seasonal allergies are caused by different kinds of pollen. Pollen allergies are regional in addition to being seasonal, so where you live will affect how severe your allergies are.

Pollen levels are at their peak in spring and fall, so allergy sufferers experience the worst during these seasons.

Pollen types include:

Grass pollen
Tree pollen
Ragweed pollen

Another kind of seasonal allergy is caused by outdoor mold. (Indoor molds aren't affected by weather, but by indoor conditions.) Outdoor molds first appear in spring and thrive until the first frost.

Medicine can help allergy sufferers, but there are also preventive strategies for each of these types of allergies.

Some general tips for anyone with pollen-induced allergies include:

Avoid the outdoors between 5 - 10 a.m. Save outside activities for later afternoon or after a heavy rain, when pollen levels are lower.
Keep windows in your home and car closed to lower exposure to pollen. To keep cool, use air conditioners and avoid using window and attic fans.
Be aware that pollen can be transported indoors on people and pets.
Dry your clothes in an automatic dryer rather than hanging them outside, where pollen can collect on clothing and be carried indoors.