A wetter than normal January, followed by a period of warm weather set the stage for a very bad pollen and allergy season.

Many allergy sufferers have noticed how much worse this year has been compared to years past. 

Today, 23ABC's Meteorologist Mike Boyce spoke with Asthma and Allergy Specialist Dr. Tonny Tanus of Kern Allergy Medical Clinic who says we've seen an earlier than normal allergy season which began late February as many trees here in the valley, including nut-tree orchards bloomed. Rainy weather tends clean out the air of any allergens, but dry and windy weather tends make things worse by transporting pollen and allergens across vast areas. 

Dr. Tanus suggests being tested for allergies if over-the-counter remedies don't improve allergy symptoms. Additionally, by learning what specific allergens your body reacts negatively to, you can be treated accordingly ahead of time.