While the winter months offer a break for many seasonal allergy sufferers, it's never too early to start thinking about the upcoming change in seasons and what allergies may come along with it. Allergic rhinitis is one of the most common chronic diseases, affecting more than nine million Canadians and over 500 million people worldwide.

"There are so many misconceptions around allergies," says Toronto allergist, Dr. Mark Greenwald. "Seasonal sufferers should be aware of the facts in order to effectively manage their allergies. Using an antihistamine such as Reactine, which starts to work in just 20 minutes, on a regular basis is just one way people can help manage their symptoms."

Think you know everything about allergies? Here are some fast facts about the allergic reactions we love to hate, and some popular myths – debunked.

• Allergies are annoying but are generally harmless to your health.

If left untreated, allergies can disrupt sleep, learning, and possibly result in chronic respiratory problems like asthma or sinusitis. Non-drowsy antihistamines like Reactine relieve allergy symptoms for a full 24 hours.

• Women are more likely to stick with what they know.According to a recent Harris-Decima survey conducted on behalf of Reactine, many women will take an antihistamine to help their allergy symptoms, while men are more likely to not treat their allergy symptoms at all. Over one-quarter of allergy sufferers have never taken an antihistamine before symptoms onset.

• If it works, it works.There is no scientific proof behind the myth of tolerance to antihistamines or a 'rebound effect'. As a result, if you have found an allergy medication that works for you, stick with it. You cannot build up a tolerance to antihistamines which are proven effective in relieving both indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms.

• The truth is that allergy symptoms can be controlled, but the cure can take many years.By making changes in your environment and reducing exposure to certain allergens, you can effectively manage your allergy symptoms.