7 Healthcast: August allergies

The heavy summer rains watered it, and then the hot dry temperatures let it grow into an abundant crop of ragweed. And it's now releasing its pollen...100 million tons of it in the U.S. each year.

Allergy sufferer, Albert Riccelli, says when ragweed season hits his symptoms are, "Sneezing, I can't breathe, my nose gets clogged up and I'm up every hour."

Allergist Dr Michael Genlesk says don't wait until you start feeling awful. Take your medicines now to help prevent an allergy attack. Recommended medications include: non drowsy anti-histamines or singular, and steroid nasal sprays and inhalers for asthma….All prescription medications.

"There is more school and more work missed during hayfever season than any other time in the year. There is more doctor's visits, and more medicine purchased during this time of the year," Dr. Genlesk said.

To reduce ragweed exposure keep your windows closed and use air conditioning, don't hang clothing outside to dry, and avoid being outside between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. when pollen counts are the highest.

Also, pollen sticks to you and you'll carry it around, so after being outside, it's a good idea to shower and change your clothes.