Mar. 16--Thanks to above average rainfall this winter, the deserts are in full bloom, and the flowered weeds and grasses come with plenty of pollens -- something that may cause allergy sufferers plenty of grief in the coming months.
"When you have more pollens in the air, that means more allergies," said Abdul S. Lalani, M.D., a board-certified otolaryngologist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ear, nose, throat, head and neck disorders.
"The pollen count will be higher. There are many other factors, including the wind, but more pollens -- more allergies."
Lalani said allergy season is very long in Yuma. "The most is when the weather is mild, and the only time when pollination is less is when it is extremely hot."
The bodies of those affected by allergies overreact to pollens or other allergy-inducing substances, said Lalani.
"Allergies are the body's way of saying something is foreign to the body. It will react because of a hypersensitivity to the pollens. A person who lacks certain receptors are non-allergenic and can withstand it.
"Allergies can be caused by tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, mold, animals, house dust and dust mites. It is a battlefield."
Lalani said genes are partly to blame.
"Allergies in a way are from their genetics. If both parents have allergies, the child is 30 percent more likely to have an allergy."
Lalani said many different symptoms are associated with allergies.
" Usually, inhaled allergies lead to nasal symptoms, inducing stuffy nose, watery eyes, watery discharge from the nose and sneezing. You can also get burning and itching sensations in the throat, nose and eyes, and a few people can have their bronchial asthma triggered as well."
Lalani said allergies are fairly common in the desert.
"The reason is we do have much longer blooming seasons compared to places where they get snow. We also have a lot of weeds and pollutants in the air, including dust."
According to Lalani, those who are allergic to pollens should stay indoors as much as possible when the desert is in full bloom. They can also take over-the-counter antihistamines, which can help control the symptoms, or get a prescription from their doctor.
Being inside isn't a cure-all, he said, because of the presence of dust, pests and pets that are commonly found in a person's home. He said some people can be allergic to dust mites and cockroaches.
"You can take steps by keeping your house clean, and if you don't have carpets, the dust mites are much less. Animals can be allergenic, so stay away from them. If you can't live without (your cats and dogs), there is a vaccine available."
Lalani said patients can take simple tests to see what they are allergic to and then order customized vaccines.
"It is a long process and is usually one shot every week for several years. Every patient needs approximately three years before they build up an immunity."
Dr. Lalani's clinic is located at 2175 S. Avenue A, Suite B. For more information about allergies, call 783-7811.
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