Spring has sprung. What’s the forecast for allergies? Brace yourself....

We’ve heard this forecast before: This spring’s allergy season will be the worst and longest ever!

That’s the prediction for 2013, according to allergist Clifford Basset. He says this spring is shaping up to be a pollen nightmare. Here are some steps you can take to lessen your exposure:

* Don’t vacuum - or at least make someone else do it and wear a mask. Pollen gets tracked in on our clothing and shoes and vacuuming can really stir things up.

* Replace your HVAC filter. It’s worth your while to pay a little more, they really do filter out pollen, pet dander, dust mites and debris.

* Mow the lawn often. It’s best if someone else can do that but mowing often helps disperse and reduce the effects of pollen.

* Wash your hair at night. It’s probably full of pollen and you don’t want that all over your pillow.