Spring Allergies? How Direct Primary Care and SLIT Can Help
Spring is here! And while that means longer days and beautiful flowers, it also brings allergy season in California. If you’re sneezing, dealing with itchy eyes, or feeling stuffed up, you’re not alone. According to Stanford Medicine, pollen levels in California are expected to be especially high this year due to changing climate conditions.
But don’t worry, there’s a better way to manage your allergies without relying on endless medications or weekly shots.
Why Are Spring Allergies So Bad in California?
California’s mild climate and diverse ecosystems support a wide range of pollen-producing plants, including oak, pine, birch, and Bermuda grass. These trigger seasonal allergies as tree pollen dominates in early spring, followed by grass pollen in late spring and summer. The state’s longer growing seasons, driven by the mild weather and increasingly by climate change, allow plants to release pollen for extended periods.
High winds and dry conditions can further exacerbate symptoms by spreading pollen over large areas. As a result, Californians often experience longer and more severe allergy seasons.
Symptoms of seasonal allergies include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose (congestion)
- Itchy, watery or red eyes
- Fatigue
- Sinus pressure/headaches
- Postnasal drip
If you’re nodding along, you’re likely wondering how to find lasting relief. That’s where Sublingual immunotherapy comes in.
What is Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)?
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) is an alternative to traditional allergy shots. Instead of injections, SLIT involves placing small doses of allergens under your tongue to gradually build immunity. It’s been gaining traction as an effective treatment, with research showing that it can significantly reduce allergy symptoms over time (American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology).
The Benefits of SLIT for Allergy Treatment
So why are more and more individuals turning to SLIT?
- Reduced reliance on over-the-counter allergy medications
- It is convenient, as allergy drops can be taken at home
- Improved quality of life by managing symptoms of:
- Recurrent sinusitis
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Congestion
- Eczema
- Other allergic reactions
- Fewer side effects
- Allergy drops are a safe and convenient alternative to traditional allergy shots. They are administered under the tongue and require no needles.
Why Choose a DPC Clinic for SLIT?
While many allergists offer SLIT, accessing it through a DPC practice means you get more direct, personalized care at a fraction of the cost. Since the DPC model eliminates insurance barriers, you won’t have to deal with prior authorizations or hidden fees, plus most DPC clinics offer same-day appointments, messaging, and even virtual consultations. If you have a reaction, need a refill, or just have a question about your treatment, getting in touch is fast and easy.
Your provider takes time to understand your lifestyle, environment, and health history — all of which affect your allergies. They’ll offer tailored advice beyond just medication, from environmental changes to nutrition and supplements.
In short, DPC makes managing allergies easier, more affordable, and more effective.
Elevated Health’s Allergy Program
Elevated Health’s allergy program helps patients manage their allergies with long-term, root-cause treatment – not just quick fixes. As a Direct Primary Care clinic in California, Elevated Health offers a simple and affordable treatment option through SLIT, a safe, at-home alternative to allergy shots.
With personalized care, convenient access to your provider, and a focus on holistic wellness, patients can finally live free of allergy symptoms and enjoy life to the fullest. Know more about our allergy program and treatment plans here! If you have any questions about our program or membership, feel free to call us 714-916-5210.
