All signs of spring are here — including allergy triggers

All of the signs of spring are here, from warmer temperatures to the blossoming trees and flowers that tell us this hard winter is over. I can't wait to tackle my garden, and I'm looking forward to the warm Saturday afternoons at my son's high school lacrosse games. It is a comforting sense of renewal.

Unfortunately, with pollen counts high, it's also means the renewal of allergies. More than 40 million Americans are affected by some form of allergic reaction to tree and grass pollens, mold, pet dander and dust mites, whether seasonally or year-round.

There's more relief possible than simply taking any of the number of medications available if you attack allergy triggers that may be in your home. Since this is the time of year for spring cleaning, make this a time to assess how you can better control indoor allergens. The four factors necessary to address are controlling air quality, eliminating mold and mildew, decreasing dust mites and controlling pet dander.

• The air apparent: When it comes to air quality, old-fashioned common sense and modern technology can clean up the air you breathe in your home. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology suggests that drier air is best for a home because humidity breeds mold and mildew.

So during pollen season, keep windows and doors closed to prevent pollen from drifting indoors.

You should also use an air conditioner to removes excess air moisture, filter out pollens and provide air circulation throughout your home. Filters should be changed once a month; extra help can come through choosing one of the anti-bacterial filters available. You can also get an air purifier, which further rids the air of allergens and bacteria.

• Preventing mold and mildew: Despite our ongoing battles, regular housecleaning does keep them under control. Look for mold in places you might not expect, like refrigerator drip pans, window frames and any areas that gather moisture. You should also consider using environmentally friendly cleaning products; they usually contain no irritants for skin or breathing. Two places you can find these cleaners are the Asthma and Allergy Guide and Catalog and Green Living magazine.

Ventilate basements, bathrooms and any dark, moist places that can grow mold. Use bleach to kill bathroom mold and select mold-resistant wallpaper and carpets in bathrooms.