Depending on where you live, pollen can be an

Change Filters Frequently---The filters for the furnace could benefit from being changed more frequently during pollen season. Having clean filters can drastically reduce the amount of spores that are sent into the air when the blower for heat and conditioning start. The more pollen the filter can trap, the less there is available to be inhaled.

Clean Smarter---Use a vacuum rather than a broom. And a vacuum that has a HEPA or high efficiency particle arresting filter is best because it will prevent particles from escaping back into the air.

Damp cleaning is better than dry cleaning. So rather than using a feather duster or dust cloth, use a damp cloth or mop to gather up pollen and other allergens from surfaces and floors.

Clearing away piles of laundry, books, magazines, and mail as well as limiting the number of knick-knacks will reduce the total surface that pollen and other particulate allergens can settle. Fewer piles will also make it easier to clean thoroughly.

Contain It Quickly---Try designating one area as the entrance particularly during peak season. Dump clothes, shoes, packages in this area and when possible, proceed directly to the shower to remove it from your skin and hair.

Store all clothes that have been worn in the washing machine until they are washed or somewhere that has a top that will not allow particles to be blown into the air.

Filter The Air---It would be nice to think that taking the first 4 precautions in this article would make indoors better, and they will, but only to a certain extent.

Continuous filtration of the air with an air purifier that contains a high efficiency particle arresting (HEPA) filter is one of the most effective ways to clear the air of any pollen that still finds its way inside.

The good news is that the HEPA filter does not care about the source of the allergen. And since by definition it must be able to remove airborne particulates as small as.3 microns, an air cleaner with this type of filter will also be able to remove more normal household triggers such as dust, dust mites, mold and mildew spores, and pet dander.

There is no way to completely eliminate pollen from indoor air. But by using the 5 suggestions above, you can considerably reduce the amount of spores in your indoor air, thus reducing the frequency and often the severity of allergy flare-ups.