As storms are expected to blow through metro Phoenix this week, people are urged to take proactive measures for allergies that may flare up as a result.
“Short term, [the rain] helps everything out because it washes the pollen out of the air,” said Dr. Julie Wendt, an allergist at HonorHealth. “Long term, it's just feeding the plants.”
Allergy season usually peaks in April and May, but rain showers across Phoenix may lead to an early start to a long allergy season.
A dry winter is better for a shorter allergy season. Wendt said that while rain and storms provide relief, it is short-lived.
“I often judge, not only the season for spring but also what will end up being the fire season later by how green the mountains are here,” Wendt said. “It’s definitely increasing the pollen.”
Wendt recommends taking over-the-counter allergy medicine, wiping off pets to remove pollen and taking off shoes in the house. Having hardwood floors also makes clean-up of pollen easier than rugs or carpets
If there is no relief from allergies or you're unsure of which medication is best, Wendt recommends seeing a doctor.
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