It's that time of the year again, and as much as I look forward to spring time, the worst part about it for me is when allergies start acting up. And boy has it been in full effect the past week.

I've only been dealing with allergy problems over the past few years, I don't recall ever having allergy issues prior to that. But ever since I've had to fight with these allergies, I've tried almost everything over the counter.

I remember the first time I started to experience allergy problems I started out using Benadryl. I picked up the drowsy version accidentally and found myself knocked out on the couch 45 minutes later. The next day I switched over to the non-drowsy version of Benadryl, but after a weeks time, didn't see any improvements over my allergy symptoms.

After suffering through that allergy season without any solutions, I switched over to Alavert. Talk about a total difference. Unlike Benadryl, I noticed the benefits of Alavert almost the next day, and it was non-drowsy too!

I find that I have to take Alavert probably a week before I would see any signs of allergies, but luckily they sell Alavert in different amounts.

Unfortunately, Alavert alone was not enough to subdue all of my allergy symptoms. I also had to start using an Afrin nasal spray to help my congestion or runny nose. I'm lucky enough to have both of those symptoms. Luckily the nasal spray does seem to work, but unfortunately you can only use it twice in a given day.

And finally, I also use Visine allergy eye drops. I don't have to use this as much as I use the Alavert or Afrin, but I definitely keep it on hand just in case my eyes get itchy or watery throughout the day.

What do you find to be the best solution for your allergy symptoms? Has anyone tried Zyrtec? I really want to give that a shot, but it says it will cause drowsiness, so that will be a night time only pill.

Please share your thoughts and solutions!