While the warm weather and clear skies are a welcome sign Summer is around the corner, it also means seasonal allergies impacted by pollen will be in full effect.

Tree pollen, for example, is expected to so very high levels in the early weeks of May, according to the Allegheny Health Network's Pediatric Institute.

Pollen released by trees appears to be in higher numbers and its allergenicity is stronger than in year's past, according to the institute.

"Outdoor tree pollen has not yet reached its peak, but it's beginning to appear and we're already seeing patients with persistent seasonal allergies," said Dr. Russell Traister, a pediatric allergist at the institute. "Over recent decades, we've seen progressively warmer climate, resulting in trees producing more pollen and negatively affecting allergic reactions in both children and adults."

So in order to combat the onslaught of seasonal allergies that are expected this year, here are some methods Traister suggests for keeping that nasty pollen at bay, no matter form it takes:

Minimize exposure: For seasonal allergies, sometimes the best course of action is to stay indoors and minimize exposure to outdoor allergens, things like keeping windows closed at home or in the care makes a noticeable difference. If the allergies are severe, wearing a mask outdoors can also be helpful.

Clean up before coming indoors: After children are finished outside, have them change their clothes and wipe down their faces, hands and legs to minimize the amount of pollen making its way inside. This also applies to pets.

Over the counter medications: The first line of allergy management is over-the-counter antihistamines, which can be taken once per day for moderate symptoms and twice for more severe symptoms. Non-drowsy allergy medicine like Claritin or Zyrtec can be recommended safely for children. Nasal sprays like Flonase are can also be recommended.

If a child's symptoms continue despite medication, a visit to a pediatric allergist may be necessary. 

This may lead to immunotherapy, or allergy shots, to reduce symptoms and the need for daily medication.