For many, spring means warmer weather and blooming flowers and trees. But for others, springtime also means allergy season. If you have been struggling with spring allergies over the years, you’ll enjoy these quick tips for coping with them.

Take allergy medicine earlier, before symptoms are likely to set in. You should always consult with your doctor before taking any medications.

Reduce pollen exposure by wearing sunglasses and a hat. Also, keep your windows closed at home to prevent pollen from coming inside.

Give your home a complete spring cleaning, because allergens don’t live just outdoors.

Boost your immune system by committing to a healthy diet and regular exercise routine.

Upgrade your air conditioning filters to have a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) of 8 to 12. A MERV rating lets you know how well the filter will remove pollen and mold from the air as it passes through the filter.