The allergic reaction we commonly associate with hay fever, or seasonal allergic rhinitis, is due to an overly sensitive immune system. The system normally works to destroy potentially dangerous invaders such as bacteria and viruses. But in the case of seasonal allergies, pollen is mistakenly identified as one of those threats, and the immune system kicks in.

As a defense, immune cells called mast cells release the chemical histamine. In turn, histamine triggers another chain of events. The end result is the body's inflammatory response -- the familiar onslaught of runny nose, watery eyes, and endless sneezing.

The Pollen of the Month?
Thirty-five million Americans suffer from air-related allergies, which are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the United States. If you're one of them, here is my prescription for surviving the season.

Identify Which Pollen You Are Allergic To
This can help, especially if you can eliminate the culprit from your surroundings. Plants that are wind pollinated are the biggest offenders. Insect-pollinated plants (usually recognizable by bright flowers and foliage that beckon insects) actually produce pollen that is too large to remain airborne -- so these plants present little risk to your upper airway.

Time of Year
Allergies from tree pollen generally flare up in late April and May. Some of the most common tree allergens come from birch, poplar, willow, oak, ash, elm, hickory, and mountain cedar.

If your allergies are worse in the summer, its likely due to grass and weeds. Kentucky bluegrass and Bermuda grass, common in many American lawns, are well-known seasonal troublemakers. Symptoms beginning in late August through the first frost are usually because of ragweed.