Allergies are the 6th leading cause of chronic illness in the US.

More than 50 million Americans suffer from them each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

There are steps you can take to proactively dodge allergens and lessen debilitating symptoms, according to the experts at AccuWeather.

Change your Routine

Are you a morning bather? Experts say that if you suffer from outdoor allergies, you would be wise to switch to evening showers. This will rid your hair and skin of pollen, so you don’t bring it to bed with you. No matter what time of day you shampoo and scrub, you’ll want to wash your linens in hot water, to remove as much pollen as possible.

Stay in-the-know

From dry winds blowing tree pollen into the air, to wet, rainy days causing dust mites and mold to thrive, weather has a huge impact on the spread of allergens and the way you feel.

“Spring allergies are driven by trees and grass pollen, and different people will have their own reactions,” says AccuWeather senior meteorologist Alan Reppert.

“If you do suffer from spring allergens, a cold front passing through can bring some relief.

“But even when the weather seems quiet, allergens can be present and contribute to illness. For example, when rain begins and washes pollen out of the air, mold spores can climb and cause allergy problems.”

Get relevant information about weather and allergies. One useful tool is AccuWeather’s daily allergy index, which is available at www.AccuWeather.com and on the free AccuWeather app for iOS and Android.

Protect indoor air

Fresh air may sound appealing, but opening your car and home’s windows is a fast-track to a high pollen count indoors. For a breeze, stick to air conditioning, as fans can kick up dust and pollen into the air.

Consider your wardrobe

For those times when you must be out and about on high-pollen count days, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect yourself. A scarf or mask over your mouth and nose can be useful when symptoms are severe.

When you get home, be sure to remove outerwear, including shoes, in your mud room or foyer so you don’t track allergens throughout the house, particularly in areas where you sleep and spend the most time.

This spring, don’t let sniffles, sneezing and wheezing get the best of you. For a more comfortable season, check the weather often and take proper precautions.