Allergy season in the Central Valley is unavoidable, but you do not have to suffer through it. We want to empower you to take control of your allergy symptoms by highlighting the most common allergens in our region and discussing helpful strategies for managing your symptoms when it seems nothing is working. Let’s dive in.
When Is Allergy Season in the Central Valley?
Because of our hot and dry climate, we often see allergy season last from spring into early fall. Dusty, dry conditions and our flat terrain increase the concentration and dispersion of the airborne allergens we will cover below. These allergens can be found outdoors, where they are lifted and carried by the wind, and indoors, where they can accumulate in household dust, fabrics, and surfaces.
Here are the most common allergens causing symptoms:
Pollen: A Year-Round Allergy Trigger
Pollen is not just a spring pest in the Central Valley! It comes from various types of trees, grasses, and weeds, meaning pollen can cause unwanted allergy symptoms throughout the year. In spring and summer, pollen from oak, walnut and other native trees common in the region is abundant in the air and can trigger allergies. Additionally, late spring and summer are marked by elevated levels of grass pollens from foxtail and ryegrass, which flourish in our climate. In the fall, you may feel the impacts of ragweed and sagebrush pollen.
Dust Mites: Microscopic Pests that Thrive in California’s Climate
Dust mites are microscopic pests that thrive in warm, humid environments. The dry conditions in the Central Valley increase the likelihood that the humidity in your home could become a haven for dust mites that find their way into bedding, upholstery, and carpets.
Mold Spores: Indoor and Outdoor Sources of Allergies
Mold spores are a common allergy in the Central Valley and are found in particularly damp or poorly ventilated areas. Indoor spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens and basements are often hotspots for mold growth, while a common outdoor source can include compost piles. Because mold flourishes in moist conditions, the rainy season can exacerbate mold growth and allergy symptoms.
Airborne Irritants: How Agriculture and Traffic Can Worsen Allergies
California’s Central Valley is one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world. Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers from this prominent industry can contribute to the prevalence of airborne irritants that can trigger severe allergy symptoms. Additionally, vehicle emissions can worsen allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in high-traffic areas and urban centers.
Practical Strategies to Manage Allergy Symptoms
Minimizing the impacts of these allergens is achievable with simple tasks like changing air filters more frequently, using air purifiers, maintaining dust-free indoor spaces, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollen counts. Small measures like wearing a mask while working outside or washing your hair more often may significantly reduce exposure.
Allergy Medications May Not Be Enough
Many allergy sufferers find effective relief with regular medications, sprays, and rinses. However, Baz knows these measures may not consistently deliver the necessary relief. That is why we take a comprehensive approach to managing your allergy symptoms. From allergy testing to medication changes or allergy shots, trust us to help you find the relief you deserve.
When to Consider Allergy Testing for Persistent Symptoms
If your efforts to control your symptoms still do not bring relief, it’s time to explore our allergy testing options.
To effectively manage severe allergy symptoms, it is essential to pinpoint the root cause or trigger of the allergic reaction and treat it appropriately. Our allergy testing provides a clear and comprehensive look into how common allergens impact you, allowing us to implement effective treatment strategies tailored specifically to your body’s unique needs.
Allergy Testing: The Difference Between Skin and Blood Testing
Skin testing is an effective method that exposes your skin to common allergens and allows us to observe your body’s reactions within just 20 minutes during your visit. A single appointment can clarify which allergens are causing your symptoms, enabling our staff to customize specific treatment options based on the results.
Blood testing is another option that detects a wider variety of allergens and provides a deeper insight into the severity of your body’s responses to them. This approach benefits individuals with skin concerns or those experiencing more severe reactions that require further testing.
Personalized Allergy Treatment Plans Offer Lasting Relief
Many of our patients have found the relief they need through our treatment plans after undergoing allergy testing. There is no need to suffer through the year, wasting time, money, and energy on treatments that don’t work for you.
Don’t Suffer Through Allergy Season
If you’re curious about which type of testing would be best for you, please ask us! We will talk you through both benefits and help you make the best decision for your needs.
