Steps to improve allergy symptoms in SoCal's unseasonable weather

PASADENA, Calif. (KABC) -- If you've been sneezing and wheezing and you think it's getting worse, doctors say you're probably right as the rain, winds and hot temps are a horrible mix for anyone with allergies.

The recent rains together with Santa Ana winds were making allergy sufferers like 3-year-old Mason Ray miserable.

Experts said the probable culprit for runny nose, eczema and stuffiness is tree pollen.

Allergy and asthma specialist Dr. Kevin Farnam said thanks to our unseasonable weather, it's running rampant.

"You may not have had allergies throughout your life, but you can get new onset allergies even in adulthood with these pollen conditions right now," he said.

Farnam said the hot temperatures are drying out our nasal passages as they concentrate the allergens in the eyes and the nose.

Doctors said what you want to do is get your nasal passages to function at 100 percent, and that means moisture. To help, you can use artificial tears, a nasal sinus rinse and run a humidifier at night.

Farnam added that pollen counts can go up towards the end of the day.

The first plan of action is to minimize exposure by keeping windows shut at night and removing your clothes as soon as you get home. Lastly, shower before you sleep.

If symptoms continue, doctors recommend to try antihistamines and nose sprays such as Flonase and Nasacort, newly available over the counter.

If over-the-counter medication does not work, doctors recommend seeing an allergist because you may need prescription-strength meds and a long term strategy for managing allergies.

Mason's dad hopes a few simple steps will get his son some relief.