Phoenix Allergies: When Is Allergy Season in Arizona?

If you suffer from seasonal Phoenix allergies, then you know how miserable they can be. The Phoenix metro area is especially bad, with extremely high levels of tree and grass pollen. But don't worry, there are steps you can take to prepare yourself for the worst.

Phoenix Allergies: Everything You Need to Know

A lot of people think that Phoenix, Arizona doesn’t have many allergens, but this isn’t the case. Allergy season is in full bloom right now.

The desert climate, cacti, and dust all contribute to the high rate of Phoenix allergies. To combat allergy symptoms, we suggest keeping nasal irrigation tools on hand, using a humidifier, and taking allergy medication.

When is Allergy Season in Phoenix?

Knowing what you are most sensitive to, such as dust and pollen, can help make your allergy symptoms more manageable.

In spring, allergies are the worst in Arizona, when trees and other plants, as well as grass and weed pollen, all start to grow again.

At one time, allergists were recommending that patients move out of the city and into the deserts to avoid allergies, but the introduction of many foreign plants and trees into the environment has lessened that advice.

Phoenix allergy season has two high points: one in early spring when trees release their airborne allergens, and another in mid-to-late summer when weeds and shrubs do as well.

Are There More Allergens During Dry Weather? 

Dry and breezy climates often cause pollen to spread widely. Although rain can help to clear allergens from the air and reduce the amount of pollen flying around, this relief is usually short-lived.

The cycle will continue, and the rain will replenish the groundwater, which the plants will then use.

What Are the Most Common Allergens in Phoenix? 

In the Phoenix area, the most common allergenic trees are ash, olive, and mesquite. The most common allergenic weeds are pigweed, Russian thistle, and sagebrush. The most common allergenic grasses are Bermuda, Johnson, and redtop.

Trees

The ash tree is a very common type of plant in Phoenix, Arizona. It’s especially active during the spring when it pollinates.

The mesquite and mulberry trees are to blame for the increased allergy symptoms in the Phoenix area over the past three decades. These large, leafy, and flowering plants release large amounts of allergens into the air in March and April, causing many people to suffer.

Cottonwood trees are also a significant contributor to allergies in Phoenix. Those who suffer from cottonwood allergies often have severe reactions.

There is some evidence to suggest that people who are allergic to cottonwood trees may also be allergic to willow trees. This is because the two types of trees share some similar proteins. If you have a cottonwood tree allergy, it may be worth avoiding willow trees as well.

Cottonwood trees are among the first to reach their peak season, typically in February.

The juniper tree is a common allergen in the Valley and tends to cause issues in the winter.

Weed and Shrub

The careless weed is a flowering shrub that is not native to Arizona but can be found in open fields and along roads. It pollinates from May to November and is often mistaken for pigweed.

Ragweed is the most common allergen that peaks in spring and fall.

Russian Thistle is a type of tumbleweed that can cause a variety of uncomfortable side effects. Touching or coming into contact with this invasive plant can result in a rash, itching, watering, and redness of the eyes. The Russian Thistle blooms from May to November, with the peak season running from September to October.

Grass

Bermuda grass is found in Phoenix parks, fields, golf courses, and home lawns. It is known to be extremely allergenic. If you have allergies, it is important to avoid contact with this type of grass.

Johnsongrass is less commonly found in landscaping, but you can see it occasionally in fields and roadsides.

Common Symptoms of Phoenix Allergies

The most annoying symptoms of allergies in Phoenix include:

• Congestion or runny nose
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Itching, redness or watering of the eyes

Unfortunately, these are often mistaken for symptoms of the common cold.

If you have been experiencing these symptoms for more than 10 days, you’re likely suffering from seasonal or environmental allergies. The common cold usually lasts less than a week.

How to Treat Allergy Symptoms

If you're struggling with allergies, the first step is to get an allergy test. This will help you determine what substances you're allergic to, and from there, you can start exploring treatment options. Immunotherapy is often the most effective long-term solution for allergies, but it all starts with that initial allergy test.

Simple things like removing your shoes and changing your clothes before entering the house can make a big difference. Also, wiping down your pets and keeping your window shut can help too.

You should change your air filters regularly to maintain good indoor air quality. Consider getting an air purifier with a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter to further improve your home's air.

There are many ways to deal with allergies, and you shouldn't let them keep you from enjoying Phoenix's beautiful climate and scenery.

What to Expect From 2022 Allergy Season in Phoenix

March signals the start of springtime, and with it, the blooming of beautiful flowers and trees. Unfortunately, many people experience allergies around this time, too.

In Phoenix, springtime is the worst time of year for allergy sufferers as pollen counts skyrocket.

Although spring is the peak season for allergies, it is not uncommon to experience symptoms year-round due to the presence of pollen and other allergens. This is because there are always plants growing somewhere in Arizona.

In addition to pollen, dust and pollution can also cause irritation throughout the year.

The humidity here makes the air always feel damp, and the trees just seem to be constantly dripping.

The bees here never stop buzzing. They just keep at it, even during the fall and winter.

Conclusion

If you're allergic to pollen, dust, or other allergens, the best thing you can do is to prepare for allergy season. Start by talking to your doctor about what medications and treatments will work best for your Phoenix allergies. Then, make sure to keep your windows closed and run the air conditioner in your home or office. Finally, try to stay indoors as much as possible when the pollen count is high. By following these simple tips, you can make it through allergy season with minimal discomfort.