Allergies are a year-round concern for many of us, those who suffer from what are called "perennial allergies". For us lucky people, both indoor and outdoor allergy triggers can stimulate allergy symptoms almost any time of the year. But even for people who only have seasonal-type allergies, their symptoms are never far from their minds even during the "good" months.

So, since it's the kickoff of another new year, I thought I'd write a month by month allergy "planner" to help you stay on the right track all through the year.

January

It's resolution time, so why not think about some allergy control-related resolutions you can work to implement this year? I provided a list of my "Top 6" nasal allergy resolutions this time last year that can get you started.

If you live in the south, especially in Texas, January is high time for what is called "cedar fever." Cedar trees pollinate in warm climates in January and February, and the resulting symptoms in sensitive folks can be severe. If this affects you, be sure you have plenty of allergy medicine on hand! And stay indoors when pollen counts are high.

February

The long winter months are dragging on, with no end in sight, for many of us who live in northern climates. If you are allergic to dust mites, pet dander or indoor mold, take all the precautions you can to rid your house of these substances, as much as possible. Since it's been a long time since most of us have had any fresh air in our houses, these items could be building up.

March

Depending on how far south you live, tree pollens can begin to appear in the environment in March. If you only take allergy medicine for seasonal symptoms, then be sure to plan ahead and get that prescription filled. Most allergy medicines take a week or two of taking them to provide the full benefit, so start taking them in anticipation of rising tree pollen levels.

April

Tree pollen season gets into full swing in almost all areas of the country by mid to late April, so be sure you have your allergy medicine and are taking it as prescribed.

Also, track pollen levels and stay indoors when the levels are at their peak levels. This won't eliminate symptoms entirely, but it will certainly help.

May

May is a bit of an overlap between tree pollen levels and the emergence of the first grass pollens. If you're allergic to grass pollens, then take your medicine and follow the standard pollen avoidance measures as well as you can.

With the weather warming up, you'll be tempted to get outdoors and be more active, but this isn't always the best idea for people with pollen allergies, so do use caution.

June

Grass pollens are at their peak this month, so if you're allergic to grass, stay indoors when the levels are highest (early mornings & hot, dry, windy days) and take your medicine! Talk with your doctor if your symptoms become difficult to manage.

With the days getting warmer, you could find yourself experiencing a sensitivity to the sun or to sunblock lotion, or even to pool chlorine. This is not really an allergy, per se, but it could make your allergy symptoms even more bothersome.