Fall allergies have blown into our region earlier than usual, causing many people to feel run-down.

"Oh, allergies right now are awful, between the rain and the leaves and everything falling," said Dorothy Pfeffer, of Exeter Twp., Berks Co.

"Itchy eyes, runny nose, kind of stuffy," said Angel Moyer, of Exeter Township.

The days of summer are almost gone and the winds of fall have blown into our area.

Allergist Dr. Edward Hein, of the Berkshire Allergy & Asthma Center Inc., in Wyomissing, said that because of a mild winter and drier than usual summer, the fall could be pretty brutal for those with allergies because of a record high pollen count.

"This year, I had to double dose medications to get people back in control," said Hein. "People coming in with respiratory problems like nasal problems, stuffiness, sniffles, sneezing, eye itching or coughing. And then we have another group coming in with skin problems."

Hein said the warmer weather prompted plants to bloom as early as February. Add rain to the equation, allergy sufferers are looking at a lot of pollination from trees and ragweed bushes. Rain has also caused the growth of something else, said Hein.

"We can't forget mold. Reading is in a big mold region," said Hein.

Weather this fall, experts stated, is expected to be mainly dry and warm conditions throughout the Northeast. When there is rainfall, it could feel like a double edge sword for those with allergies.

The relief, Dr. Hein said, is for allergy sufferers to use saline and salt water flushes found over-the-counter at any pharmacy. Also, daily use of antihistamine.

The cool fall chill might cause you to open more windows, but do not give into that temptation.

"Keep the pollen outdoors," said Hein.