ST. CLOUD -- As summer continues to fade and we turn our attention to fall, seasonal allergies are also entering a peak time.

Dr. Mary Keating is a Pediatric Allergist at CentraCare Health. She says once we hit mid-August, pollen and mold start to become more of a problem. Keating says lake water allergies also tend to be worse this time of year.

Dr. Keating says if you know you'll be swimming or doing water sports, you can take preventive actions by starting a nasal spray days in advance.  Antihistamines can be taken a day beforehand.

Symptoms of seasonal allergies include itchy eyes, sneezing, a runny nose or a stuffy nose.

Dr. Keating says most allergies can be treated with over-the-counter medications, but if that doesn't help, you should see a doctor for relief.

The allergies are generally around until the first few hard frosts of the season.

More From AM 1240 WJON