The back-to-school rush is about to start in the Valley, which brings new schedules, school The back-to-school rush is about to start here in the Valley, bringing new schedules, school supplies—and, unfortunately, the fall allergy season.

Fall allergies in Scottsdale and Phoenix often fly under the radar, but they can seriously impact both kids and adults. Here’s what to expect and how to get ahead, especially if your child (or you) suffers from allergies or sinus issues.

Why Fall Allergies Hit Hard in Arizona

While much of the country thinks of allergies as a spring problem, the Scottsdale and Phoenix area sees another spike in allergens in late summer and early fall.

Common local triggers include:

• Ragweed pollen (peaks mid-August to October)
• Dust storms (monsoon season dust and debris)
• Mold spores (increased after storms or irrigation)
• Desert air + fluctuating temperatures = extra stress on sinuses.

Signs Your Child May Be Dealing with Fall Allergies

If you notice your child suffering from any of these, there’s a chance that allergies are the culprit:

• Runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Chronic cough, especially at night
• Sinus pressure or frequent headaches
• Trouble concentrating in class due to discomfort or fatigue

If you notice these, don’t just guess—consult an allergy specialist. At Sinus & Allergy Wellness Center in Scottsdale, we can evaluate your child’s symptoms and recommend a plan.

🩺 How Your Allergy Specialist Can Help

✅Over-the-counter (OTC) medications

OTC antihistamines block histamine, helping relieve sneezing, itching, and runny noses.
Decongestants help ease a stuffy nose, but should be used cautiously—especially if you have high blood pressure.
Nasal steroid sprays or corticosteroid creams reduce inflammation in nasal tissue or on skin.

Dr. Gergits at Sinus & Allergy Wellness Center often recommends combining cetirizine (Costco’s generic Allertec) with fluticasone (Costco’s generic AllerFlo). Start these 2–3 weeks before peak allergy seasons for best results.

💊 Prescription medications

For more persistent or severe symptoms, prescription antihistamines can provide longer-lasting relief.
Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation affecting the nose, lungs, or skin.
Other options include leukotriene modifiers for allergy-related asthma and nasal ipratropium for runny nose symptoms.

🌱 Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps “teach” the immune system to react less to allergens.

• Allergy shots (traditional)
  
• Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT): dissolvable tablets under the tongue
  

This is usually recommended when allergies are severe, chronic, or don’t improve enough with medication.

🏫 Before the First Day of School: Quick Checklist

• Talk to your child’s teacher or school nurse about allergy symptoms and medication needs
  
• Check expiration dates and labels on inhalers, antihistamines, or epinephrine if needed
  
• Identify food sensitivities that might mimic allergy symptoms (e.g., dairy or gluten)
  
• Pack water daily to keep your child hydrated—hydration helps thin mucus and ease nasal irritation
  

🏡 At-Home Steps to Help

• Use HEPA air filters in bedrooms and living areas
  
• Keep windows closed, especially on high-pollen days
  
• Encourage showering and changing clothes after outdoor play
  
• Begin using saline sprays and nasal rinses before allergy season peaks

🤧 When Allergies Turn into Sinus Infections

Chronic allergy inflammation can block drainage, leading to sinus infections (sinusitis).
Symptoms include:

• Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
  
• Facial pain or pressure (especially around the forehead, nose, and eyes)
  
• Headaches
  
• Sometimes fever or even tooth pain
  

Acute sinus infections usually last under four weeks, but chronic sinusitis can linger for months.
If symptoms worsen or last over 10 days, consult your healthcare provider—you may need antibiotics.

✅ Treatment & Closing Thoughts

If you notice allergy symptoms ramping up as the school year approaches, don’t wait. The Sinus & Allergy Wellness Center team in Scottsdale can help your child or your whole family stay ahead of allergy season. Schedule your personalized care plan today.

By taking a few proactive steps now, you can help prevent sinus infections, missed school days, and discomfort later this fall—so your family can focus on learning and enjoying the new school year.