Strong winds around the valley are expected to reach their fabrics

PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) – Grab the handkerchief and stock up on allergy medicine! The strong winds we’re seeing across Arizona this week are making things worse for allergy sufferers.

“We are in the height of allergy season,” said allergist Duane Wong. On a windy day, Dr Wong says the wind can blow pollen particles up to 400 miles. Dr Wong thinks allergy season is also worse this year than recent ones, as fewer people are wearing face masks.

“Typical things we see are stuffy nose, runny nose, sneezing as well as itchy red eyes. difficulty breathing,” said Dr. Wong. Dr. Wong says new patients find it difficult to see a doctor right away.

“We are probably full for new patients, at least a month in most of our offices, but we had to add overtime just to try to get people in because most people don’t want to wait a month just to try to get in and get some relief,” Dr Wong said.

If you can’t see an allergist right away, Dr. Wong says there are other ways to find relief.

• Keep windows closed, especially at night when pollen counts are high
• Try a HEPA filter, but make sure you get the right one for your room size
• If you exercise outside after work, take a shower as soon as you get home
• Wash your pets weekly

If you’re looking for over-the-counter medications, Dr. Wong recommends trying cetirizine, generic Zyrtec.

“I probably start with an antihistamine just because that would give me immediate relief, you know, within an hour or two. The only question is whether it would relieve you enough for nasal sprays to work a little better, but unfortunately they could take a few days to a week to really kick in at this time of year,” Dr Wong said. . said.

So when might allergy sufferers see relief? Dr. Wong says the pollen count will start to drop after several consecutive three-digit days!

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