Allergy season has been worst in years

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - This allergy season has been named as one of the worst in many years, due in part to the very dry summer we've had. But how do you know if you have allergies, or just a cold?

"If you're feeling rundown or sick for a few days and you have that overall sick feeling, that's likely to be a cold," said Dr. Arvin Uppal.

And why do some people have allergies, and others don't?

"The immune system is recognizing normally harmless substances such as weed pollen and incorrectly identifying it as an invader to the body and making an incredible response….and that incredible response is what makes people feel horrible," said Dr. Uppal.

To give you an idea of what makes you suffer, just one ragweed plant can produce more than a million grains of pollen. There's no cure, but there is relief. "I suggest over the counter medicines like Allegra or Zyrtec.

Dr. Uppal says if over the counter medication doesn't work, you should see a doctor.