SAN DIEGO -- San Diegans with allergies are facing a very tough spring ahead.

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Record rains have produced a bumper crop of allergens, reports 10News.

Allergies are a family affair for the Palmers.

Eight-year-old twins Josh and Jay Palmer and their mother, Joanne Palmer, all suffer from allergies.

"We get clogged ears, clogged noses... it affects everything," said Joanne.

"You sniffle a lot and you sneeze a lot and you cough a lot," said Josh.

Unfortunately, it's only going to get worse.

"Pollen producing plants and weeds are everywhere and if you are an allergy sufferer, it's a recipe for one of the most miserable springtimes in recent memory," said allergy specialist Dr. Bruce Prenner.

Prenner said people are already experiencing severe allergy symptoms and spring has only just arrived.

But there are some simple tips to keep your allergies at bay.

If you have to mow the lawn wear a mask; if you have to clean up your garage try to do it in the later day; keep your windows closed between 2 a.m. and 10 a.m., a peak time for pollen; be consistent with your medication and use it properly.

Non-sedating medications like Claritin and generic versions are available without a prescription.

Prescription medications such as Allegra and Zyrtec can also provide relief.

Prescription steroid nasal sprays, sold under such names as Flonase, Nasacort and Nasonex, are the most effective hay fever treatment.

The latest weapon against allergies is an experimental nasal spray medication being tested here in San Diego, reports 10News.

The Palmer twins took part in a three-month study of the drug.

Although Josh and Jay don't know for sure if they were taking the new medication, their symptoms improved.

"They weren't waking up in the middle of the night sneezing," said Joanne.

New medications for allergies are being tested at Allergy Associates Medical Group and Research Center.

If you are interested in becoming involved in a study call 619-229-2355.