Allergy Season in Long Beach
What ENT Specialists Want You to Know

What Are Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies are allergies that are triggered by pollen released from plants, trees, grasses, and weeds. They’re also sometimes called allergic rhinitis or hay fever.

Just as the name suggests, seasonal allergies occur during certain seasons of the year, depending on what triggers your allergy symptoms. Also depending on your allergy triggers, you may experience allergy symptoms only during certain seasons or throughout the year.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergy symptoms vary per patient, but common symptoms to look out for include:

• Frequent and uncontrollable sneezing
• Nasal congestion that may be causing breathing difficulties
• Coughing
• Itchy, watery, and red eyes
• Runny nose with thin, clear, and watery discharge
• Postnasal drip, or mucus dripping down the back of the throat
• Itchy nose, throat, or roof of the mouth
• Daytime fatigue due to lack of or poor quality sleep

What You Should Know About the Allergy Season in Long Beach, CA

Long Beach and the rest of California experience warm and pleasant weather almost all year-round. Unlike the rest of the country, residents don’t suffer through the cold and harsh winters.

And while the coastal weather patterns can keep pollen levels low, it doesn’t mean that the state doesn’t have allergy seasons. Residents can still deal with allergies throughout the year, depending on their triggers and allergens.

Here’s a quick look at California’s allergy season:

Spring (March to May)

Spring season is typically tree allergy season in Long Beach and the rest of the state of California. During this time of year, the major culprits for allergy issues include oak, cedar, and pine trees. Residents can also begin seeing a rise in Bermuda grass pollen levels in late April and May. Residents with this trigger can start experiencing issues at this time.

Summer (June to August)

The summer season will usually see a continuous rise in grass pollen levels, particularly those from Bermuda grass, bluegrass, and ryegrass. The end of summer, usually August, also marks the beginning of the weed pollen season, particularly from ragweed, which may start causing issues for sensitive individuals.

Fall (September to November)

The fall season could mean a continuous rise in weed pollen in Long Beach and the rest of California, particularly from ragweed and sagebrush. During this time, residents should also keep a close eye on increased mold spore levels in the air. Mold exposure may increase in damp environments or following periods of increased moisture.

Winter (December to February)

As the cooler winter season approaches, many plants pause their vegetation, which can lower outdoor pollen and allergen levels. However, residents need to be wary of indoor allergens such as mold spores, pet dander, and dust mites, as they spend more time indoors.

Practical Tips and Strategies to Manage Your Allergy Symptoms in Long Beach, CA

✅ Minimize and limit your exposure to your allergy triggers

While you can’t fully avoid all allergens and triggers around you, you can limit and minimize your level of exposure.

• Track daily pollen and allergen forecasts and plan your day around these numbers.
• Limit your time outdoors, particularly during peak allergy seasons. If pollen levels are high, consider limiting outdoor exposure. If you have to go out, check pollen forecasts to plan the best time to schedule an outdoor activity.
• Keep doors and windows closed to keep allergens and irritants out, especially during high-pollen and windy days.
• Keep your home clean and allergen-free. If you’re mowing the lawn, trimming trees, or removing weeds, make sure you’re wearing proper protective gear.
• If you’re heading out, a mask may help reduce exposure during certain activities,
• If you spend time outdoors, changing clothes or showering after substantial outdoor exposure may help the spread of allergens and irritants in your home.
• Use high-quality HEPA filters in your home’s HVAC system and vacuum cleaner to filter out pollen, allergens, and other airborne irritants.

✅ Try over-the-counter medications to manage allergy symptoms

Some over-the-counter medications may offer additional support in symptom management. These medications may include:

• Decongestants
• Antihistamines
• Saline nasal sprays
• Pain relievers
• Eye drops

✅ Ask your physician about allergy drops

If your allergy symptoms don’t seem to get better despite rest and conservative treatment approaches, consider asking your physician about allergy drops.

Sublingual immunotherapy, or allergy drops, are administered under the tongue and are designed to build tolerance to certain allergens over time. Your physician may discuss the possibility of this treatment option. However, custom-compounded allergy drops are not FDA-approved.

Individual responses vary, and your physician can help assess your symptoms and determine if this may be the appropriate treatment approach for you.

As allergy drops are placed under the tongue rather than by injection, this may be a preferred treatment by some patients.

A note on FDA approval:

Custom-compounded allergy drops are not FDA-approved products. A licensed clinician may prescribe compounded preparations when clinically appropriate, subject to applicable federal and state requirements. 

Conclusion: Learn More About Your Allergies With Del Rey MD

Del Rey MD provides ear, nose, and throat services at our locations in Marina Del Rey, Long Beach, and Bakersfield. Our team offers sinus evaluations, allergy testing, and guided treatment plans based on each patient’s unique allergy profiles, symptoms, and other individual health factors.

If you are experiencing persistent allergy symptoms, get in touch with our team for a personalized consultation.