Every year, allergy season means stuffy noses, itchy, irritated eyes, and constant sneezing.

Allergies occur when your immune system mistakenly identifies a substance—in this case, pollen—as a threat and mounts an immune response. Most symptoms are not life-threatening, but they are uncomfortable.

If you haven't found the best protection against pollen yet, don't worry. There are plenty of medications available, but if you want to keep the situation under control, you need to take action. Here are some other ways to protect yourself from pollen:

1. Close the windows at all times, at home, work or in the car.

2. Change clothes and shower before bed. People with seasonal allergies should shower or bathe before bed to remove pollen from their hair and skin.

3. Clean your bedding – change your sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and other blankets as often as possible. Wash them weekly in hot water.

4. Wear an N95 mask outside which can also help block pollen particles.

5. Spray a saline spray inside your nostrils to help remove pollen or soothe irritated mucous membranes.

6. Drink plenty of water. Don't underestimate the power of staying hydrated.

7. Steam helps with the airways, so you can inhale steam directly (by standing over a pot of boiling water) or take a hot shower.