If one topic has been discussed this month more than the beauty of the weather, the glorious profusion of golden daffodils in Gloucester this spring, or the massive crowd enjoying the annual Daffodil Festival, it was the amount of pollen hovering in the air and covering our cars, decks, and streets.

Pollen is the fine, powdery substance inside flowering plants that contains the male reproductive cells and other structures. When pollen comes into contact with the female part of a plant, germination occurs, and a new flowering plant can develop.

In many regions, including Virginia, pollen is a three-season occurrence with spring pollen production causing the most problems for humans in the form of seasonal allergies. Our bodies perceive pollen as the enemy and go into attack mode, releasing substances called histamines and other chemicals that make us cough and sneeze and cause our noses to run and eyes to itch and water. We also feel fatigued and irritable.

Pollen is sticky, and when we breathe it in, it adheres to the mucous membranes in our throats and nasal passages. The sneezing, coughing, nose-blowing, and watery eyes that occur are the result of our bodies’ attempts to get rid of the pollen.

Tree pollen is the most common cause of spring allergies. Have you ever driven through a stand of pines and watched the dust cloud envelop the tops of the trees? Grass pollen is the cause of allergy symptoms in June and July with ragweed (not goldenrod) causing symptoms in the fall along with mold. Winter is the only season that is relatively free of allergens.

Pollen spreads primarily by wind, water, and insects, and also by birds and other animals. Even our pets gather pollen on their coats and paws and bring it into the house. Humans also spread pollen as it settles on our shoes and clothing, and even on our car tires.

We can’t, and don’t want to eliminate pollen, but we can take steps to decrease the amount we track into our homes and learn how to work safely outdoors to prevent exacerbation of allergy symptoms.

Exposure reduction is important, although not always practical. We can’t always stay indoors during pollen season, but we can wear face mask when working in the garden.

Check the TV or your phone for the daily pollen count, and avoid mowing, weeding, or raking when the count is high.

Shower, shampoo, and change your clothes after working outside.

Close the windows, and turn on the air conditioner in the house and car.

Over-the-counter antihistamines labeled for 24-hour relief can ease symptoms. Always use medications according to package directions and pay attention to product warnings. Some antihistamines cause drowsiness. If you develop wheezing, shortness of breath, or tightness in the chest, you could be having an asthma attack and need to see your physician immediately.