Healthy Families | Seasonal Allergies in the Central Valley

Is it just a cold or could it be seasonal allergies?

Spring in the Central Valley brings blooming trees, warmer weather, and for many families, persistent sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. In this episode of Healthy Families, Nurse Practitioner Diana Padilla from Omni Family Health explains why allergy season hits our region particularly hard — and what families can do about it.

Because of our geography and heavy agricultural activity, allergens tend to linger in the valley air. Tree pollens, grasses, and dust particles become trapped, creating prolonged exposure that affects both children and adults.

In this conversation, Diana breaks down how to tell the difference between allergies and common illnesses like colds or the flu. While allergies often cause itching and long-lasting symptoms without fever, colds and flu typically include body aches and more sudden onset.

She also explains when it’s safe to treat symptoms at home and when it’s time to seek medical care — especially if shortness of breath or wheezing develops. For families managing asthma, seasonal allergies can be a serious trigger and should be addressed early.

You’ll also learn practical ways to reduce exposure at home, including:

• Keeping windows closed on windy days
• Leaving shoes outside
• Showering in the evening
• Using HEPA filters

Omni Family Health offers in-person appointments, telemedicine visits, and on-site pharmacies with free home delivery to make care convenient for families across the Central Valley.

To learn more about seasonal allergies and when to seek care, read our full blog post.