Though Arizona was once considered a refuge from allergies, due to its warm, dry climate, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Phoenix is now cited among the 75 worst cities for allergy sufferers.
A few factors are to blame:
- Imported plants—Arizona already had some native allergenic plants, such as ragweed—a flowering plant and prolific pollinator. Then, throngs of newcomers to the Valley imported a barrage of allergy-causing plants, including Bermuda grass, junipers and mulberry trees. The plants beautified the desert but also created a hotbed of allergic activity.
- Extended pollination season—It’s true Arizona’s summer heat may stunt pollens, but spring, fall and mild winters all are conducive to pollination, making for longer allergy seasons than are found in many states.
- Dust—About 20 percent of Americans are allergic to dust, and Arizona has plenty of it. Construction, development and lack of moisture all contribute to a dusty environment, which can, in turn, lead to hay fever and asthma.
- Air pollution—As Arizona grows, the state gets more people, development, concrete and cars. All of these contribute to declining air quality, which can stir up allergy symptoms. Couple this with the fact we live in a valley where pollens and other irritants can settle in for the long haul, and you have fertile ground for allergic misery.
A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology tested more than 8,000 people nationwide and found no matter where they lived, approximately 45 percent of participants showed sensitivity to at least one allergen. Easterners were more prone to mold allergies, while Westerners were more sensitive to grass and ragweed. However, the overall finding was no part of America—not even Arizona—is significantly better for allergy problems.
If you struggle with allergies, the good news is there is hope. For brief, mild seasonal allergies, prescription medications can take the edge off of symptoms. For more severe symptoms or symptoms lasting longer than a few months, allergy immunotherapy can help desensitize your body to pollens, pet dander, dust and other allergens, so it will stop reacting to them.
Immunotherapy is available through shots or under-the-tongue drops. Most of my patients prefer drops because they are safer than shots and can be taken in the comfort of home rather than at the doctor’s office.
Stuart H. Agren, MD, opened the Family Allergy Clinic, in the East Valley, in 1985. He has helped more than 15,000 patients overcome food and pollen allergies using sublingual allergy drops. Peers recently chose him as a Phoenix Magazine Top Doc. His offices can be reached at (480) 827-9945. Visit the website at FamilyAllergyClinic.com.