Spring has sprung, and even people with mild allergies may suffer this year.

For millions of allergy sufferers, spring brings the onset of misery -- itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and runny noses -- all triggered by an overreaction of the body to pollen.

Trees may not be leafing out just yet, but pollen fills the air all the same. Experts say higher-than-normal pollen counts are expected this season, which can trigger a reaction for people who are even mildly allergic.

Dr. Shannon Henning, of PM Pediatrics, says people should do their best to recognize their symptoms early.

Some other tips include closing doors and windows at night or any other time when pollen counts are high; wearing a pollen mask if you do outside chores; and showering before going to sleep to rinse pollen from your skin and hair, because pollen can stick to bed sheets.

Stella Sowa, 6, and her family say they take all those precautions, plus oral medications. But doctors say many of those can take up to two weeks to fully take effect. Still, the Sowa family says their measures are helping them swing into spring a bit easier.