Allergies tend to run in families, and there's not much you can do about your genetics. But you can manage - and even prevent - allergy symptoms by avoiding triggers and getting the right treatment.

4 Ways to Avoid Allergy Symptoms

• Keep the windows closed.  
  A gentle breeze can bring pollen into your home.
  
• Wash your dog or cat occasionally. 
  Pets can carry pollen in on their hair.  
  
• Get a skin test to identify your allergy triggers. 
  A skin test is a safe and reliable way to pinpoint which allergens are causing your allergies.     
  
• Consider getting allergy shots. 
  If you have allergy symptoms for more than three months a year, it may be worthwhile to get allergy shots to strengthen your defenses against the key allergens that bother you.