Central Oregon experiencing hard-hitting allergy season, but there are treatment options that can help

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Central Oregon residents are facing a surge in allergy symptoms. The obvious culprit is the blooming juniper, but birch pollen might also be a factor.

Medical experts at Central Oregon Ear, Nose and Throat say every person has different things their allergic too. And allergy issues can persist year-round, rather than just being during "allergy season."

Identifying the specific cause is a first step in finding relief. Booking an appointment with a specialist is the quickest way to determine the exact irritant causing your allergies. After that, they can come up with a treatment plan for you, if over-the-counter medicine isn't cutting it.

Deena Fiddler, the allergy clinic coordinator at Central Oregon Ear, Nose and Throat, says the sooner you get a consultation, the better.

"As soon as you start to have those allergy issues, especially that are not covered by over-the-counter medicines, then you need to be seen by a specialist," Fiddler said.

For patients seeking long-term solutions, the clinic offers a specialized sublingual (or under the tongue) treatment.

Taking a few drops under the tongue three times a day is easier than getting a shot, and the treatment is specialized to each patient. The treatment lasts for three years, but after that, the clinic says you should be allergy-free for five years or more.