Allergy Season in the Northeast

Pollens and molds are common triggers for allergies, and the Northeast, like all regions, is home to numerous allergens that wreak havoc on allergy sufferers each year. Molds exist year-round, but pollens have seasons. The best way to treat pollen allergies is to know when the seasons begin.

Trees

• The beginning of allergy season differs from allergen to allergen. The earliest sufferers are those allergic to tree pollens. Trees found in the Northeast, including oak, pine, maple and birch, begin releasing pollen as early as February and continue until June.

Grasses

• People who suffer from grass allergies experience symptoms later in the year than those allergic to tree pollen. Grasses such as timothy, fescue and redtop pollinate from May through late August, according to Clarinex's website.

Weeds

• People allergic to weeds experience symptoms from August to October. Weeds that grow in the Northeast that are particularly problematic include nettle, ragweed and plantain. Some people also experience problems with pigweed and cocklebur pollen.