Seasonal Allergies in Winter: Understanding Causes, Options for Relief, and Further Information
In the colder months, it's not just the chilly weather that can make you feel under the weather. Winter allergies, often caused by indoor allergens, can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms, making life less comfortable during the season.
Dust mites, pet dander, indoor mold, and dry indoor air are the most common indoor allergens responsible for winter allergy symptoms.
Dust mites thrive in warm bedding, carpets, and soft furnishings, multiplying during winter when homes are heated and closed up. Pet dander, microscopic flakes of skin shed by cats, dogs, and other animals, can trigger allergic reactions all year round, including winter. Indoor mold spores, often found in damp places such as bathrooms and around windows, can exacerbate allergies especially in winter due to less ventilation and increased indoor moisture. Dry air, caused by central heating systems, does not cause allergies but can irritate airways and worsen allergic symptoms.
Additional indoor triggers that may cause or worsen allergy symptoms in winter include real or artificial Christmas trees, which can carry dust, mold, or chemicals, and carpeting, which can harbor dust mites, making it a breeding ground for allergens.
Winter allergies tend to worsen because people spend more time indoors, increasing exposure to these allergens. Controlling humidity, using allergy-proof linens, regular cleaning, and potentially changing heating methods (e.g., radiant heating instead of forced air) can help manage symptoms.
On the other hand, colds are viral infections that typically go away on their own within a week or two. While colds can cause a sore throat, cough, and fever, airborne allergens will not change a person's body temperature. Symptoms that last longer than a few weeks are usually the result of allergies.
It's important to note that colds and allergies share some symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. However, colds are more likely to cause a fever, and a sore throat is common with colds, although it occurs less frequently with allergies. Allergies are less likely to cause a fever and typically do not cause a sore throat. Allergies may also cause itchy rashes or eyes, whereas colds do not.
In industrialized areas, as many as 1 in 4 people are allergic to dust mites. If allergies interfere with daily life, symptoms of a cold persist after 1-2 weeks, a newborn is wheezing, has trouble breathing, or has any allergy or cold symptoms, a person does not know what they are allergic to, allergy treatment does not work or stops working, or a person has asthma and their allergies worsen symptoms, it's important to contact a healthcare professional.
In conclusion, while winter allergies may not be as seasonal as we think, understanding the common indoor allergens and taking preventative measures can help manage symptoms and make the winter months more comfortable.
- Dusting, vacuuming, and regular cleanings can help reduce the number of dust mites in your home during winter, thus alleviating allergy symptoms.
- In addition to cleaning, using allergy-proof linens and controlling humidity levels can create a healthier and allergy-friendly workplace-wellness environment.
- For those sensitive to pet dander, skin-care products such as hypoallergenic soaps and lotions can help reduce the chances of an allergic reaction when in contact with pets.
- Aside from controlling allergens, maintaining a well-balanced diet and regular fitness-and-exercise routines can support overall mental-health and immune system functions.
- Some therapies-and-treatments for allergies include over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, or even immunotherapy (allergy shots).
- To ensure proper nutrition, include foods rich in vitamins C and D during the winter months, as these nutrients are essential for supporting the immune system and maintaining skin-care health.
