TYLER, Texas — You can feel it in the air! Spring is less than two weeks away, but already – allergy season is underway due to an influx of pollen.
Across East Texas - plants are in bloom and pollen is visible on cars and other surfaces.
“Just washed my car the other day, and I got a whole lot of pollen back on it,” Hallsville resident Christopher Mason said.
If you’re someone who struggles with allergies, you’re probably already feeling the effects. Doctors are currently recommending to wear a mask outdoors for those who suffer from allergy attacks.
“I know people don't like to wear a mask, but masks are really a great option if you're really allergic, so put your mask on and that'll help you not to breathe in all of those allergens,” Methodist Premier Wellness Family Doctor Jill Waggoner said.
Another tip that can be helpful is changing your clothes as soon as you get home.
“Make sure that you take those outer layers of clothing off because the allergens and the pollen will stick to your clothes," Waggoner said.
Waggoner mentions this is particularly important if you have young children who spend time playing outdoors.
"It's important to take their clothes off and get them in a bath before they start to lounge around the house," Waggoner said.
This will not only prevent the pollen from spreading to their stuffed animals or bedding but keep allergens at a low level.
Other options people can consider are keeping their doors and windows closed, wearing sunglasses when outside and washing your pets regularly.
“Go see a doctor, get some allergy pills. I got allergies, from the bottom of my heart, go outside. Go. Enjoy it," Mason said.