Allergens are Everywhere
What was once Arizona’s desert landscape has been transformed over the years into green grasses and new trees and weed species, complete with new sources of pollen.
Some allergenic plants were already native species like desert broom, desert ragweed, mesquite, paloverde, triangle leaf bursage, and wing scale. But to make matters worse, more allergenic species have been introduced. The list includes olive, white mulberry, and narrow leaf willow trees; weeds like Russian thistle and Australian saltbush; and the popular Bermuda grass.
So, although we love the natural beauty and splendor of Arizona’s great outdoors, when its beauty is in full bloom, we might hide indoors to avoid all that pollen. But even indoors, there’s no escape. Allergens like pet dander, molds, and dust mites are lurking in the air, between the curtains, and even beneath our pillows.
What Causes an Allergic Reaction?
Sometimes, your body’s immune system mistakes a harmless foreign substance (such as dust or pollen) as being a threat. When this happens, the immune system produces antibodies for protection. These antibodies trigger the release of chemicals which then cause an allergic reaction– and your miserable allergy symptoms.
Allergic responses vary greatly from person to person. Allergies can develop at any time and any age. They can also disappear and sometimes return later in life. Allergy symptoms can affect your eyes, nose, sinuses, skin, respiratory system, cardiovascular system, and digestive system. Battling chronic allergies can lead to feelings of exhaustion and fatigue. Anaphylaxis is a very serious, life-threatening allergic reaction. It usually occurs rapidly and affects multiple parts of the body simultaneously. If anaphylaxis is not treated immediately, it can lead to unconsciousness, shock, and death.
You can end the misery your allergies cause. Convenient Allergy testing and treatment are available for patients in Phoenix, Glendale, Tempe and surrounding areas at our office in North Scottsdale.