What You Should Know About Seasonal Allergies in Phoenix, AZ

Seasonal allergies are a thing no matter what part of the country you live, but in Phoenix, they can be especially problematic. Arizona offers the perfect environment for a runny nose, terrible head pain, congestion and sinus problems. It’s the combination of desert air that likes to blow around a bit and native greenery that has most Phoenix residents suffering. What else should know about those seasonal allergies Phoenix?

The Allergy Triggers

One of the most critical bits of knowledge one can have about life in Phoenix is the allergy triggers. Here are four you need to understand.

1. Dust

The most obvious culprit for seasonal allergies is dust. The Phoenix area is dry with little rain. Add things like highway construction, unpaved rural roads, and their world-famous dust storms, and you see why this allergen tops the list.

What can you do about the dust problem in Phoenix? For one thing, keep the windows closed. For most people, that’s not hard to do given the hot temperatures in the city.

Keeping things at home tidy and dust free would be another important step. For most allergy sufferers, hardwood floors and daily vacuuming helps, as well as changing air conditioning filters regularly.

2. Air Pollution

Air pollution is a growing problem in most states including Arizona. Phoenix, however, rests in a valley and that means dirty air tends to hang over the city for days at a time. It can bring with it eye irritation and sore throats, as well, as the usual seasonal allergy symptoms like sinus pain and headaches.

The trick to avoiding air pollution is to stay indoors as much as possible, especially on days when they predict poor air quality. For severe allergic reactions, it might help to wear a face mask with a filter when outside. Make sure your home has the right air filters, as well.

3. Mulberry Trees

There are many pollen producing trees that are native to Phoenix and some imported from other states, too. One of the worst around is the Mulberry tree. It delivers incredibly allergenic pollen and can cause reactions like pink eye, difficulty breathing and nasal congestion.

Mulberry trees tend to be short, not exceeding more than 50 feet. The leaves can be lobed with a serrated edge. Of course, as the name suggests, there may be berries, too. They start as white or green and then mature to be dark purple or black.

4. Mesquite

The dry weather of Phoenix makes mesquite a popular landscaping choice. This tree is low to the ground and usually oddly shaped with a slight lean. It can produce pods and flowers, as well, generally in the spring and summer.

There isn’t much you can do about the trees in Phoenix if they are triggering your seasonal allergies. When avoiding triggers isn’t possible then it might be necessary to get allergy shots and prescription medication.

Treating Seasonal Allergies

Things you do at home can help manage allergy symptoms like rinsing your sinuses with saline or salt water. Over-the-counter medications can help, as well.

For many residents in Phoenix, it’s important to figure out exactly what the trigger is and that means allergy testing. A physician can test for 50 allergens specific to Arizona and pinpoint the cause of your symptoms. After that test, your doctor will tell you if you are a good candidate for allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy.

If you have seasonal allergies, visit one of the many BackFit locations in Phoenix and around the state. Contact BackFit today to make an appointment for a complimentary assessment or allergy testing and treatment.