SE Valley Times

Allergy season is fully upon us here in Arizona. 

This year's allergy season is especially inconvenient due to the fact that many are on high alert for the symptoms of COVID-19, which can, in many cases, be similar to those of allergies. Doctors are reporting a large uptick in the number of people making appointments for allergy relief and diagnosis. 

"Allergies can present themselves in various forms, such as runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes, watery eyes, sneezing, etc.," said Dr. John Stewart of Arizona Breathe Free Sinus and Allergy Center in Scottsdale.  “If allergies are not addressed and managed appropriately, this may lead to sinus disease or may be amplifying the sinus disease already present."

There are a few steps that allergy sufferers can take to relieve some of the symptoms.

The first thing is to avoid the allergens when you can. This means closing windows in your home and car, filtering the air in your home and making sure to shower at night so that you don't sleep with allergens living in your hair. 

Allergy testing is also a wise choice. 

"With a scratch test, you get instant results and a treatment plan can be coordinated immediately based on your individual test results," Stewart said. 

This year's most popular treatment is allergy drops. Many patients prefer this convenient treatment option over allergy shots. 

"Allergy drops are immunotherapy that addresses allergies in an individualized manner," said Diana Ruiloba, the physician assistant at Arizona Breathe Free. "They are a great alternative to allergy shots while providing the same efficacy."

Allergy drops are made from all-natural extracts from organic material like pet dander, dust, pollen or mold. Administered in very small doses, the drops help patients to overcome allergies while also remaining safe and reducing the chance of a reaction. 

"Like allergy shots, it is imperative to be consistent/compliant with treatment," Ruiloba said. "The convenience that allergy drops offer is that they may be self-administered. This allows you to take them with you anywhere you may like to travel to while still being consistent with the treatment."