NewsChannel5 reports that the tree pollen count is 485 grains of pollen per cubic meter of air.

The news wasn't anything new to Zachary Siegal. He suffers every time trees and grass pollinate.

"It's tough when you have to go to class and take finals and you bring a box of tissues," Siegal said. "Your eyes are watery, you're blowing your nose and you can't breathe. It's really bad."

University Hospitals of Cleveland allergist Dr. Theodore Sher recommends prescription medications for moderate to severe cases of allergies.

"There are a new generation of antihistamines including Allegra, Clariden and Zertec which are three non-sedating antihistamines," Sher said.

Sher also prescribes eye drops and a steroid nasal spray that he says can prevent symptoms 80-90 percent of the time.

Allergy season ends in early July.

Sher also suggests that allergy sufferers staying indoors in air conditioning, especially in the morning when the pollen count is the highest. When planning a vacation, find a part of the country where the pollen count is not as high at this time of year.

Related Stories:

• May 1, 2000: Questions About Allergies? Call Pollen Line
• March 21, 2000: Sneezing Season Starts In Spring
• May 5, 1999: Can't Stop Sneezing? Pollen Is At Its Highest
• July 13, 1998: Preventing Allergies In Kids