Warm Weather Sparks Spring-Like Allergies Along Front Range

DENVER (CBS4)- It's not uncommon this time of year-- hacking, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes-- but it may not be the common cold.

"Respiratory season is still in full bloom and it's overlapping with allergy season right now," said Deborah Fending, asthma educator and Staff Development Nurse at National Jewish Health.

Fending says you can blame the beautiful weather because pollen season has arrived and it's a little early, "We are seeing people have symptoms earlier than they usually report them because of the wind and the warm temperatures."

Health experts say now is the time to start your antihistamine regimen. Fending says unfortunately, things aren't going to get much better.

"We're just at the very beginning of the pollen season so you can expect it to get worse, got a good warm start and everything is starting to bloom so we gave to get prepared," said Fending.

National Jewish Health has prepared a guide to get everyone through allergy season. For those who aren't sure whether it's allergies or a cold, visit a doctor.

-Written by CBS4 Reporter Jamie Leary. Watch her weekdays on CBS4 Morning News or follow her on Twitter.