July 5, 2016

Nothing pairs better with nice tan than a runny nose and red eyes during the summer months. Summer allergies can hit anyone and any age, even if you’ve never before had allergies. It is a wise idea for individuals to visit the Allergy Asthma Clinic if these undesirable signs accompany your beach towel and flip flops.

Arizona summer allergies can be just as bad as spring and fall allergies. If you are suffering daily from any of the following symptoms, it’s time for you to visit the Allergy Asthma Clinic:

  • Allergic shiners: Dark circles under the eyes which are due to swelling and discoloration from congestion of small blood vessels beneath the skin in the delicate eye area.
  • The classic allergy face: Red eyes, red, runny nose and a tired appearance of the
  • Nasal crease: This is a line which can appear across the bridge of the nose usually the result of rubbing the nose upward to relieve nasal congestion and itching.
  • Mouth breathing: Cases of hay fever with severe nasal congestion can result in chronic mouth breathing.

During the summer months, pollen (grass, weeds and trees), mold and dust are common allergy culprits. Allergy symptoms can often be mistaken for a cold. However, there are ways to tell the difference between a summer cold and an allergy. Continue to be active and enjoy the warm summer months, but don’t forget to take care of your body and visit the Allergy Asthma Clinic. If summer allergy symptoms have already hit you or a loved one, here a few extra steps you can take to reduce the uncomfortable symptoms:

  • Follow air quality reports: Air quality codes are broadcasted daily on the radio and television. During the days with poor air quality, create fun activities to do inside the home!
  • Turn on the AC: Make sure to change your AC filter before the summer heat and humidity set in. Air conditioning is especially important in bedrooms; avoid fans, which circulate dust, pollen and other particles that can irritate your nasal passages and airways.
  • Avoid smoke: Any kind of smoke, and even odors from smoke, can trigger asthma and allergies. If you live with a smoker, encourage that person to stop or minimize smoking, step outside to smoke, and wear a jacket and head scarf to prevent bringing smoke odors back into the house. Smokers should also wash their hands and face and brush their teeth after smoking, to fully remove the smell.
  • Hydration and breathing: Drinking plenty of fluids on hot days is important, especially if you suffer from allergies. If you become dehydrated, breathing through the nose and lungs may be more difficult.

For patients suffering from summer allergies, the heat of these hot months can be one of the most challenging times of the year. While free from the drier air of the cold winter months, pollen, air pollution and ozone can conspire to make any trip outside a source of frustration and anxiety. However, with proper planning and preparation, as well as relevant medical equipment, managing your allergies and asthma in the summer does not need to be a burden. Contact the Allergy Asthma Clinic to schedule an appointment and create a plan to fight the allergy symptoms this summer!