August 22, 2014 @ 7:27 am
PHOENIX -- This week's rains appear to be causing problems for allergy sufferers.
And when it's not the rain, the dust storms could be dredging up the fungus that creates valley fever.
Dr. Joseph Mittel of Banner Health said he's already seeing an uptick of allergy sufferers after all the rains.
And it's just starting.
"Over the next few weeks, with the pollen count starting to rise due to some blooming plants, you worry about the usual hay fever symptoms of itchy, watery eyes and sneezing and things of that nature," Mittel said.
Pollen isn't the only culprit.
"Mold, mildew and things like that start to grow and raise their ugly heads, and that can also cause worsening hay fever-type symptoms," he said.
Mittel suggested that staying indoors with windows closed will help stop the allergies. Doing certain daily activities at night will also help.
"Shower before bedtime," he advised. "That pollen is all over your shirt and all through your hair. If you sleep in it all through the night, that can often trigger symptoms."
For those who still cough and sneeze all through the night, head to the local drug store. Mittel said that there are several over-the-counter medications that may help relieve symptoms.
There is no over-the-counter relief for anyone with valley fever.
Read more on KTAR News.
