by Meghan Rizzo

Created on: February 26, 2010

Winter allergies are not as common as spring allergies, but they can be just as debilitating.  Indoor allergens that are present year-round become more potent.  Windows closed against the colder weather do not allow for as much air circulation.  People spend more time indoors and are therefore more exposed to indoor allergens.  Pets also tend to spend more time indoors, which can certainly aggravate symptoms, even in people who are only mildly allergic to pet hair or dander.

Common winter allergens include, dust, mold, mildew, and the aforementioned pet hair and dander.  Symptoms can be mild to severe and usually include itchy, runny nose and eyes, frequent sneezing, headache, fatigue, and sometimes upset stomach.  One can easily distinguish between allergies and a cold as allergies tend to involve more itching, produce clear mucus, and are not accompanied by fever. 

Following are a few simple ways to fight winter allergies:

Before it gets cold enough for the heat to kick in, thoroughly clean the surfaces of all radiators or heating vents with a damp towel to remove any dust that might have settled there.  This way, when the heat is turned on for the first time, you won't be bombarded with a cloud of allergens.  Continue to clean these surfaces on a regular basis.

Dust and vacuum frequently.  When dusting, use a damp cloth so that the dust sticks to its surface rather than simply getting kicked up into the air.  Change your bedding often (especially pillow cases) and remove pet hair from fabric using a sticky lint remover.  If your pet has his own "spot," consider placing an old towel or blanket there, so you can toss it in the wash whenever necessary.

Dry sinuses are more prone to irritation and infection.  In the winter, people often complain of waking up with a sore throat or sinus headache, even when there is no illness present.  Indoor heating tends to make the air very dry, robbing your body of moisture.  Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and caffeine. 

Consider using a humidifier to add some moisture to the air, especially at night.  However, be sure to monitor moisture levels carefully as too much moisturewill promote the growth of mildew and mold.  According to http://www.allergybegone.com/humidity.html, for indoor spaces, "the recommended humidity level is between 30% and 50%."

Saline spray is also recommended for people who suffer from allergies.  This simple salt water solution, when sprayed into the nostrils, moisturizes the sinuses, strengthening them against allergens and germs.  Saline spray

can be found in most drugstores and, since most brands are not medicated, it is not addictive like other nasal sprays.

If symptoms are severe and the above tips do not provide relief, see your doctor.  He or she might prescribe allergy medication for you to take daily until the end of the season.  For long term treatment, immunotherapy allergy shots can prove to be quite helpful in reducing - even eliminating - symptoms.

Learn more about this author, Meghan Rizzo.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.