Winter Allergies - Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

Introduction:

Winter allergies are a common issue most people experience during colder weather. Although allergies are typically associated with the spring and summer seasons, they can actually occur year-round and are called seasonal allergies. During the winter season, most people spend their time indoors due to the harsh weather, which can increase exposure to indoor allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and mold. Dry air during the winter season can irritate the lining of the nasal passages and lead to nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes.

What Triggers Winter Allergies?

The most common triggering indoor allergens are–

• Airborne Dust Particles - Leaving the windows and doors open can cause dust and pollution from the environment to get into the house. These dust particles, when inhaled, can trigger respiratory infections and potentially cause winter allergies.

• Dust Mites - Dust mites found in beds, sofas, carpets, and other furniture have the potential to trigger winter allergies. These dust mites live in warm, damp environments, and their dead bodies and waste can get embedded in the different objects in the house. Indoor heaters are favorable for the growth of dust mites, as they live in warm conditions.

• Pet Dander - Pet dander, found in almost all indoor and household furniture, carpets, and bedding, is the most common allergen that can cause winter allergies. Pet dander from dogs, cats, birds, and other pets sticks to the surface of household objects and is difficult to get rid of with regular cleaning. This increases the risk of getting exposed to greater amounts of allergens. Improper hygiene maintenance and failure to sanitize the house daily make the condition worse by increasing allergen buildup.

• Mold - Growth of mold in moist environments like bathrooms, sink areas, wash basins, balconies, and basements, especially during gloomy winters and rainy seasons, can cause winter allergies. Additionally, the use of indoor humidifiers, air conditioners, and conditions like leaky pipes or close proximity to drainage pipes can worsen the condition.

• Cockroach Droppings - Kitchen areas are more prone to being dampened. Sink areas, wet utensils in the racks, and kitchen cupboards are more likely to be contaminated with cockroach droppings. Leftover foods can invite cockroaches and cause the multiplication of allergens, increasing the risk of winter allergies.

• Footwear Dirt - Wearing outside footwear at home can cause the dirt from outside to enter the house and be all around. Breathing the same trapped air can trigger allergic conditions.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Winter Allergies?

The following are the symptoms of mild winter allergies–

• Frequent and unstoppable sneezing.

• Congested or stuffy nose.

• Itchy and watery eyes.

• Sore throat.

• Itchiness in the throat.

• Dry morning cough.

• Low-temperature fever.

• Breathing difficulties.

In severe cases of winter allergies, one experiences–

• Skin rashes.

• Frequent asthmatic attacks.

• The feeling of a heavy chest.

• Wheezing while breathing.

• Feelings of anxiousness and exhaustion.

• Tightness in the chest.

How to Know if It Is a Cold or a Winter Allergy?

• Origin - Winter cold arises from a virus that is spread by someone who is already infected with winter cold. The virus multiplies in the body of the affected individual and spreads through droplets to another individual. Whereas allergies are caused by the release of histamine, which causes the body’s inflammatory reaction in response to allergens.

• Duration - Cold lasts for several weeks, but allergies last until the individual is exposed to the allergens.

• Onset - Symptoms of the cold start a few days after the infection, and allergic reactions occur immediately after exposure to the allergens.

• Symptoms - Body aches, fever, and a sore throat are more common and worse with colds. However, these symptoms are either mild or may not occur at all in the case of winter allergies.

• Cure - Winter cold subsides once the body fights the infection. However, in the case of allergies, the symptoms subside upon the elimination of exposure to allergens.

How Are Winter Allergies Treated?

Individuals experiencing severe winter allergies should seek medical treatment at the earliest possible time. Those with more severe allergies may require prescription medications or immunotherapy to manage their symptoms effectively.

• Over-the-Counter Allergy Medications - Medications such as antihistamines and decongestants are prescribed that provide relief for mild symptoms.

• Nasal Irrigation Treatments - These are done to clean and get rid of the allergens in the nasal passages.

• Steroidal Nasal Sprays - Nasal sprays containing Fluticasone and Triamcinolone can reduce inflammation and a runny nose.

• Immunization with Allergy Shots - Doctors often recommend allergy shots in severe cases of weak immunity that work by exposing the individual to small amounts of allergens to boost immunity against these allergens in the future. This is called immunization therapy, which is more commonly used.

How to Prevent Winter Allergies?

It is necessary as well as important to take steps to prevent winter allergies to avoid discomfort and potential complications. The following are some ways one can prevent winter allergies –

• Sanitation and Hygiene - One way to do this is by keeping the indoor environment clean and free of allergens. Vacuuming regularly with HEPA filters, using an air purifier, and washing bedding in hot water can all help reduce exposure to allergens.

• Using a Dehumidifier - Additionally, using a dehumidifier can help reduce air moisture and reduce irritation in the nasal passages.

• Replacing the Carpets - Washing the carpets can be tedious and can leave remnants of allergens behind. Replacing the carpets seems like a better option to eliminate the allergens completely.

• Fix Leaky Pipes - Leaky pipes leave room for pests and the growth of mold. Fixing them can help reduce exposure to allergens. Additionally, sealing the cracks and openings also helps reduce the risk.

• Limit Indoor Time for Pets - Leaving pets outdoors cannot be possible; however, one can limit the time pets stay indoors to prevent the risk of winter allergies.

Conclusion:

Winter allergies can be a frustrating and uncomfortable issue for most individuals. Repeated sneezing, flu-like symptoms, and winter headaches can take a toll on one’s health. By taking steps to manage allergen exposure and seeking medical treatment if necessary, individuals can minimize symptoms and enjoy the winter season.