Spring Allergies in Phoenix: When It’s Time to See an ENT (and Not Just Take Another Allergy Pill)

Phoenix, AZ, is a particularly difficult place to live if you suffer from seasonal allergies. Because of the mostly warm weather and growing season all year-round, some allergy triggers may be present all year-round. For allergy sufferers, this can be difficult, especially in terms of exploring options for managing symptoms over time.

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As an Arizona resident, here’s what you need to know about the state’s spring allergy season, as well as recognizing the signs that it’s time to see an ENT, and not just take another allergy pill.

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What Are Allergies?

Anyone can be allergic to almost anything we inhale, touch, or eat, such as pollen, mold, pet dander, food, and medications.

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Allergies are how the immune system reacts to foreign substances, known as allergens. When the immune system misidentifies a foreign substance as a threat, the body overreacts, leading to allergic reactions, such as sneezing, itching, or skin rashes.

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In some cases, when someone comes in contact with their triggers, it can lead to a severe or life-threatening allergic reaction, such as the swelling or tightening of the airways, which is also known as anaphylaxis.

What About Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies are a type of allergy that develops when the immune system overreacts to a substance present in the environment, usually pollen released during spring, summer, or fall seasons.

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They’re called “seasonal” allergies because different types of plants pollinate during different times of the year. Allergy sufferers have different triggers during different seasons, resulting in different symptoms during different times of the year.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies?

Symptoms of seasonal allergies vary depending on what triggers the allergy, the severity of the individual’s allergies, and the season. Allergy symptoms also develop gradually over time.

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Common symptoms of seasonal allergies include:

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• Nasal congestion
• Itchy and watery eyes
• Stuffy nose with clear, thin, and watery nasal discharge
• Postnasal drip, or mucus dripping down the back of the throat
• Frequent sneezing
• Coughing
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Skin rash or hives

The Spring Season and Spring Allergies in Phoenix, AZ

Due to its generally warm climate and mild winters, allergy season lasts all year-round in Phoenix, AZ. Depending on what you’re allergic to, you might experience allergies during one season or during all seasons of the year.

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Peak allergy season usually starts in the spring. During this time, tree allergens, such as ash, mulberry, oak, olive, and cottonwood, dominate allergy triggers in the air.

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Grass allergies also tend to be high during this season, making spring a common time for increased allergy symptoms with many triggers potentially lingering in the air.

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The Phoenix spring season usually begins in March and lasts until May.

When Should I See an ENT for Spring Allergies?

If you notice that you feel sick and suffer from symptoms such as nasal congestion, a stuffy nose, breathing difficulties, sneezing, coughing, and headaches during certain times of the year, it may be consistent with seasonal allergies. If you’re not entirely sure or have not been diagnosed with allergies before, it may be a good time to see an ENT for a professional consultation.

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Your primary care physician can help evaluate your symptoms. Depending on clinical findings, they may refer you to an ENT specialist, formally known as an otolaryngologist, for further allergy testing and diagnosis.

How Are Allergies Tested and Diagnosed in Phoenix, AZ?

A consultation with an ENT specialist in Phoenix, AZ, can help guide you through the appropriate diagnostic process to help determine if you have seasonal allergies.

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Part of the diagnostic process is allergy testing, which may include:

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• A skin test (either in the form of a skin prick test or intradermal skin testing) to identify your allergy triggers
• A blood test to check for antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE), which are related to the immune response 

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The type of test to be conducted will depend on individual health factors, which your care provider can assess during the consultation to make a recommendation. They will also discuss how the testing will go, including potential risks it may carry.

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Additionally, your ENT doctor will also ask about your symptoms, their severity, how often you experience them, potential irritants you might’ve been exposed to, and your environment and lifestyle, to inform the diagnosis.

What Are Allergy Treatment Options in Phoenix, AZ?

Recommended treatment options and management strategies vary depending on clinical findings, individual health factors, and personal preferences. When you see an ENT specialist in Phoenix, AZ, for evaluation, they may discuss:

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• Medications, such as decongestants, allergy medications, antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops, and pain relievers, may help reduce the severity of allergy symptoms in some individuals.
• Immunotherapy, in some cases, may help modify how the body’s immune system reacts to allergens. Allergy drops or allergy shots are administered in gradually increasing dosages to help the body reduce sensitivity to its allergens. However, results vary, and outcomes are not guaranteed. Talk to your doctor for potential benefits and risks.
• Lifestyle modifications can help limit your exposure to allergy triggers. These changes may include:

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✔️Monitor daily pollen count.

✔️Keep your home clean and free from airborne allergens and irritants.

✔️Keep doors and windows closed, especially during high-pollen and windy days.

✔️Install a HEPA filter on your A/C unit.

✔️Wear a protective mask when going out, especially on high-pollen and windy days.

✔️Trim trees, mow the lawn, and pull weeds around your property.

✔️Take off outdoor clothes and shower immediately after being outside.

✔️Refrain from hanging laundry outside.

Conclusion: What You Can Do About Spring Allergies in Phoenix, AZ

Arizona Breathe Free provides ear, nose, and throat care services in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the surrounding Maricopa County communities. Those interested in learning more can explore additional information about ENT services and care options on our website. 

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