The weather is already warming up, so it's time to prepare for the coming onslaught of common Lubbock allergens.

The good news is that we will likely have at least one more freeze, but already some plants are braving the surface. And with plants comes pollen.

However, pollen is not alone as a major allergen here in Lubbock. We will take a look at the most common allergens, and how to deal with the symptoms.

Dust

Considered a major "indoor" allergen, we here in Lubbock know that we have days of major outdoor dust. These dust storms can happen any time of year when we have low precipitation and high winds, but the majority of these "dust events" occur in late Spring and early Summer.

The best way to avoid this allergen is to avoid going outside during these events and to have your home as sealed up as possible to avoid dust spilling in. If you do have to go outside, this is a great time to rock your coolest bandana or a face mask.

Tree Pollen

Despite our stereotype of being so flat "you watch see your dog run away for three days", Lubbock has plenty of trees, and with them, a lot of tree pollen. Most trees pollinate in Spring, except for Juniper, which pollinates in the Winter. Oak trees are a big culprit here in Lubbock, and I always sense when I'm near a blooming (and stinky) Dogwood or Bradford Pear.

Trees are large and perennial, so expect the allergens to hit very soon. Just be glad we don't have a ton of cedar, like other parts of Texas.

The best way to avoid tree allergens is to change clothes once inside after being around pollinating trees. Since tree pollen can catch a breeze for miles, you may want to get a good nasal spray or other OTC medicine to help, too.

Grass Pollen

Grass allergies can be particularly uncomfortable, as grass pollen is great at causing respiratory issues and skin irritation. Lubbock experiences a lot of pollen from Bermuda, Timothy, and Rye. These allergens are the worst in late spring and early summer.

Change clothes and shower after mowing the lawn, and if your allergies are severe, consider paying a landscaper to handle it for you. Again, keeping OTC meds in stock might be a good idea.

Weed Pollen

Weed pollen can be brutal, particularly in late Summer and early Fall. Ragweed, Lamb's Quarters, Pig Weed, and others. Since a variety of weed pollen mixes in the air, it can cause, "a more complex range of symptoms," meaning it is majorly uncomfortable in more ways than one.

Keeping weeds under control in the first place is helpful; however, there are many areas of Lubbock where weeds thrive en masse, so avoiding pollen in the air is nearly impossible.

Change clothes and shower after picking weeds, and yet again, OTC meds are probably a must in the medicine cabinet if you are allergic to weeds.

Mold?

Luckily for us, mold is mostly a Texas coast allergen, but it's important to be vigilant about mold inside a home, and other common indoor allergens, like pet dander. Clean and vacuum frequently to help alleviate symptoms.