Allergies can make you miserable. Here’s how to track pollen levels near you

By Devi Shastri | The Associated Press (AP) – Allergy season can bring misery to tens of millions of Americans each year. Tree, grass, and other pollens can cause runny noses, itchy eyes, coughing and sneezing. Where you live and what you’re allergic to can make a big difference in how bad your allergies are, but there are many things you can do to feel better. Here are some tips from experts to keep allergies at bay — maybe even enough to allow you to enjoy the outdoors. WHICH POLLENS CAUSE ALLERGIES? There are three main types of pollen. Earlier in the spring, tree pollen is the main culprit. 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. TRACK POLLEN LEVELS, THEN PLAN YOUR DAY The best and first step to controlling allergies is avoiding exposure. That’s easier said than done when it’s nice out. Start with keeping your windows closed at home and in the...