Fall Allergies vs. Spring Allergies: Why They Feel Different and How to Manage Both
Seasonal transitions can be challenging for allergy sufferers, as allergies often flare up during specific times of the year. Depending on the allergens you're sensitive to, you may experience symptoms at varying times and for different durations throughout the year.
If you develop certain symptoms like frequent sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, congestion, runny nose, and a general feeling of tiredness during fall or spring, you might be suffering from seasonal allergies.
Many people suffer from fall allergies, spring allergies, or even both. But what is the difference between fall and seasonal allergies and how can you manage yours?
Fall allergies in Arizona: What to watch out for
In Arizona, fall allergies can still cause discomfort for many, even in the desert climate. The main culprits during the fall are ragweed pollen, mold, and common indoor allergens.
Ragweed pollen is a significant trigger. Even if ragweed doesn’t grow widely in Arizona’s desert regions, pollen can travel long distances, meaning residents may still experience reactions from August to November, with levels often peaking in early to mid-September.
Mold can also become an issue in Arizona, especially following the monsoon season when dampness lingers in low-lying or shaded areas. Mold thrives in moist environments, releasing spores into the air as it grows in places where water collects or organic material, like leaves, begins to decompose.
Indoor allergens like dust, dust mites, and pet dander are often prominent in fall, especially as Arizona residents spend more time indoors during hot or dry spells. Even though Arizona’s air is typically dry, indoor spaces can trap and concentrate these allergens, leading to symptoms.
Keeping doors and windows closed on high-pollen days, using HEPA filters indoors, and cleaning regularly can help reduce exposure to allergens during Arizona’s fall season. If symptoms persist, consulting a healthcare provider for tailored treatment options is recommended.
Spring Allergies in Arizona: Key Triggers and Tips
Springtime in Arizona may bring beautiful blooms, but for allergy sufferers, it also brings an increase in allergens like pollen, grass, and dust. Here’s what to expect and how to manage spring allergies in the desert:
Pollen: Arizona’s warm climate and early spring make it a prime spot for pollen allergies. Trees like mulberry, olive, ash, and juniper are major pollen producers, releasing pollen as early as February and continuing well into spring. Since pollen counts often rise after a dry winter or heavy rains, those with allergies to tree or grass pollen may experience symptoms earlier in Arizona than in other regions.
Grass Allergies: Bermuda grass and other regional grasses pollinate heavily in spring, especially as temperatures warm. Grass pollen can become airborne and is tough to avoid outdoors, causing common allergy symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes.
Desert Dust and Mold: Spring in Arizona is also known for its dry, windy conditions, which stir up desert dust and can exacerbate allergies. Mold can also develop in damp areas, especially if there were late-season rains, making it a less common but possible irritant.
Indoor Allergens: Even as outdoor allergies ramp up, indoor allergens like dust mites and pet dander can add to the burden, especially as spring-cleaning stirs up particles.
Managing Spring Allergies in Arizona: To reduce symptoms, keep windows closed on high-pollen days, shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors, and consider using air purifiers indoors. Over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal sprays can also help, but for severe allergies, consulting a healthcare provider can provide personalized options for long-lasting relief.
Fall Allergies vs. Spring Allergies: Do Symptoms Differ?
People suffering from seasonal allergies share the same symptoms, regardless of whether they have fall allergies or spring allergies. The difference is the type of allergens that trigger the symptoms. During fall, ragweed pollen is the primary allergen for allergy sufferers while spring allergy sufferers will have to deal with tree and grass pollen during the spring season.
There are several ways you can manage the symptoms of your seasonal allergies:
- Identify exactly which pollens trigger your allergies. This way, you’ll know when to take extra steps to limit exposure and when to begin any necessary allergy medication.
- Monitor pollen counts before heading out.
- Change out of your outdoor clothes and take a full shower after spending time outdoors.
- During allergy season, it’s best to keep the windows to your home and car closed and shut.
- Stay indoors during dry and windy days. The wind can make pollen travel for miles and trigger many allergy sufferers.
- When you have to go outside during allergy season, wear a protective mask to minimize exposure to allergens.
- Avoid hanging laundry outside during allergy season as allergens can stick to clothing.
- Invest in a dehumidifier to keep indoor air dry.
- Use high-quality filters in your home’s air heating and air conditioning.
- Take allergy medication during allergy seasons, especially if you’re going outdoors.
- Use antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops to help manage allergy symptoms.
- Consult with your doctor on long-term allergy treatment like allergy shots and allergy drops.
Let Arizona Breathe Free Help Manage Your Allergies
Allergies can be really tricky to deal with and manage. At Arizona Breathe Free, we are committed to helping our patients manage and treat allergy symptoms, with their personal needs and preferences at the center of our work.
If you’re done with dealing with pesky allergies, schedule an appointment with us today, and let’s start your journey towards better health, no matter the season!