Do you suffer from itchy eyes, runny nose or sore throat in winter? Do you cough, sneeze often and have trouble breathing during the cold season? Then, in addition to respiratory diseases can also indoor allergies be the cause of your symptoms. Experts explain what can help those affected.
Allergens aren’t just found outside in trees or grasslands. The interior can also harbor many allergy triggers, such as mold, pet allergens, or dust mites. Those who are allergic to it generally suffer more symptoms during the cold season, because then we spend more time indoors. Some advice from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) can help better cope with those winter allergies.
Symptoms intensified in winter
Indoor allergies are a year-round problem, but you’ll find them indoors Winter notice it more because you spend more time at home.
Due to the colder weather, you are also likely to keep doors and windows closed to keep the cold out. With this you also lock the allergens in the house and your heating recirculates the ambient air and all allergy triggers.
You don’t have to accept indoor allergies as an inevitable fact of the winter season. With the following tips The ACAAI allows you to be proactive and control your winter allergies.
Clean regularly
It may seem like a simple solution, but cleaning your apartment or house is one of the easiest ways to combat winter allergies. on the inside dealing with Dust, mold, pet dander and dust mite droppings can hide anywhere and cause sneezing, coughing and a stuffy nose.
To limit your exposure to these allergens indoors, keep a regular Cleaning program a. Clean and vacuum frequently, especially under and behind furniture where allergens can easily accumulate.
wipe counters and other surfaces you use frequently. Wipe down Christmas decorations during the holidays, especially if you’ve stored them in places prone to dust and mold.
Reduce pet allergy triggers
It can be difficult to express your love for yours pets and to balance indoor allergy management. Just like you, your pets spend more time indoors, which increases their exposure to hair and saliva.
While you may enjoy snuggling up with your pets before bed, letting pets out of bed helps with any allergies you may have at night that can disrupt your sleep. bedroom keep away. Keep your bedroom door closed during the day so your furry housemates won’t be tempted to enter.
When petting your cat or dog, be sure to wash one’s hands, so that you do not accidentally touch the face and cause an allergic reaction. Finally, don’t forget to groom your pets regularly to reduce indoor airborne allergens.
Protect your bedding from dust mites
According to the ACAAI, they live and reproduce mites in warm, humid places and are commonly found in pillows, mattresses, carpets and upholstered furniture. Even if your home is visibly clean, dust mite allergen particles are too small to see.
Use zippered dust mite covers on your mattress and pillows to limit your exposure to dust mites. Wash and change your sheets, blankets and other linens weekly Hot waterto clean up the remaining mite droppings.
Finding and Preventing Indoor Mold
Many molds are not visible to the naked eye and mold spores may cause allergic reactions when suspended in the air. Because mold can grow in your basement, bathroom, under the sink, and anywhere there is running water, it can be difficult to avoid these allergens.
If you suspect yourself Mold indoors, it is best to consult a professional who can detect and eliminate the mold present in your home.
Also be sure to reduce humidity in bathrooms and kitchens. If the humidity control is a problem, consider a dehumidifier.
Seek medical help
Seeing an Allergist Is the Best Way to Manage Your Indoor Winter Allergies recognize and to deal with.
“Allergists are the best trained health professionals for this. treatment allergies and asthma”says Dr. Kathleen May, President of the ACAAI.
After a consultation, they can perform tests to determine your allergies diagnose and identify possible causes. An allergist can also prescribe antihistamines and other allergy treatments to relieve your allergy symptoms.
Take control of your indoor allergies this winter with these five tips to help you enjoy the cold, cozy months allergy free to be able to enjoy. (ad)
Author and source information
This text corresponds to the specifications of the specialized medical literature, medical guidelines and current studies and has been verified by health professionals.
Important note: This article contains general advice only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. It cannot substitute a visit to the doctor.
Tech1 year ago
