As the temperatures drop and we retreat indoors, it’s time to gear up for the challenges of winter allergies. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America highlights common symptoms during this season, including itchy, red, or watery eyes, sneezing, a stuffy or runny nose, coughing, difficulty breathing, and disruptions in sleep patterns.
Allergists observe a notable uptick in respiratory issues and infections during these colder months, emphasizing the repercussions of prolonged indoor exposure. The enclosed indoor setting presents hurdles, with recirculated air carrying dust and bacteria.
But how can one avoid these potential hazards? Before delving into preventive measures, let’s examine the primary sources of risk for individuals with allergies and asthma during the winter season.
- Covid and Flu
High-risk groups face heightened susceptibility to severe respiratory syncytial virus infections, as COVID and flu cases surge, escalating daily diagnoses, according to medical professionals.
Having asthma does not elevate the risk of contracting the COVID-19 coronavirus. However, individuals with asthma who do contract the virus may experience more severe symptoms than those without respiratory conditions, primarily due to existing respiratory challenges. This is particularly noteworthy for children with asthma, who exhibit an increased likelihood of developing more severe symptoms in the case of any respiratory infection, including COVID-19.
- Dust Mites
These minuscule bugs thrive in household dust, triggering a range of allergic responses from mild to severe.
In milder cases, dust mite allergies may manifest as occasional symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing. However, in more severe instances, the condition can become chronic, leading to persistent sneezing, coughing, congestion, facial pressure, eczema flare-ups, or even severe asthma attacks.
Feeding on organic matter such as shed skin cells and absorbing water from the atmosphere, dust mites find ideal breeding grounds in warm, humid environments. Common household items like bedding, upholstered furniture, and carpets provide a perfect habitat for these tiny allergen producers.
Moreover, dust contains the feces and decaying bodies of dust mites. It’s the proteins present in this dust mite “debris” that act as the primary triggers for allergic reactions.
- Indoor Mold
For individuals with mold allergies, the immune system reacts aggressively to inhaled mold spores. Upon inhalation, the body perceives these tiny airborne particles as foreign invaders, prompting the development of allergy-causing antibodies to combat them. The reaction to mold exposure can be immediate or delayed.
Symptoms of mold allergy encompass coughing, itchy eyes, and various discomforts. Importantly, individuals with both mold allergies and asthma may experience triggered asthma symptoms in the presence of mold spores, potentially leading to severe asthma attacks in susceptible individuals.
Indoor mold, a pervasive issue, can flourish in various locations under favorable conditions. Mold growth is not limited to basements; it can manifest behind walls, on soap-coated grout, and on other damp surfaces, including carpet pads and within the carpet itself.
Elevated humidity sets the stage for optimal mold growth. Excessive moisture, triggered by issues like leaky pipes, water seepage during rainstorms, or flood damage, can intensify concerns associated with mold-related problems.
Tightly sealed windows and doors pose a risk, trapping moisture and impeding proper ventilation, creating an ideal breeding ground for mold. Damp areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, are particularly susceptible to mold infestation.
- Household Pets
In the United States, about 7 out of 10 households have a pet, and allergic reactions to furry companions are common. Even animals with feathers, including birds like parrots or parakeets, can elicit allergy symptoms.
By the way, an allergic response isn’t triggered by the pet’s hair, fur, or feathers. Instead, it stems from the protein found in the pet’s dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine. The hair, fur, or feathers serve as carriers for the dander, which can also harbor additional allergens like dust mites, mold, and pollen. When these proteins come into contact with your airways, eyes, nose, mouth, or skin, they activate allergy symptoms.
Cat and dog allergens are widespread, and cat allergens, in particular, have a really sticky nature. These allergens can accumulate on furniture and various surfaces, adhering to walls, fabric furniture, and clothing. They may also stick to carpets, pillows, and other areas. Even after removing the animal, pet allergens can continue to cause symptoms for up to six months, especially with cat allergens.
- Cockroaches
Beyond being unwelcome nocturnal visitors in your kitchen, cockroaches can be more than just unsettling pests—they can also act as allergy triggers. The saliva, feces, and discarded body parts of cockroaches contain allergens that can exacerbate both asthma and allergies. Similar to dust mites, these allergens can worsen symptoms when stirred into the air.
According to the National Pest Management Association, approximately 63% of homes in the United States harbor cockroach allergens. In urban areas, this percentage escalates to between 78% and 98% of homes.
- Fireplaces and Candles
Candles and fireplaces can make the house more warm and cozy. They also can have lingering smoke that irritates the lungs. The flames emit substances that, if not managed properly, can harm indoor air quality. Wood-burning and gas fireplaces introduce chemicals like carbon monoxide, while burning wood releases inhalable fine particles. Despite volumes below health risks, these substances can cause symptoms such as eye and throat irritation. Soot, produced during combustion, is an irritant to the eyes and airways. Additionally, paraffin wax, derived from petroleum byproducts, may have environmental impacts.
- Christmas Trees and Holidays Decorations
Yes, your Christmas tree could be an unexpected trigger for allergies. Some individuals may have allergies to pine and cedar pollen, and even the comforting scent of pine can irritate sinuses and lungs due to chemical compounds present. However, allergic reactions to Christmas trees are more likely due to pollen from fall weeds that accumulate on the trees as they await sale.
Christmas trees are cut down well in advance, and while most tree pollen blows away, some, like ragweed pollen, may linger. Additionally, Christmas trees naturally harbor mold spores, which thrive once the tree is moved into a heated home. For those with sensitive allergies, artificial trees may be a better option, but they, along with holiday decorations, come with potential allergen issues like dust and mold accumulation.
Strategies to Conquer Winter Allergies:
- Make Your House a Safer Space
- Say farewell to old carpets, curtains, and drapes.
- Avoid carpeting in bathrooms and basements and refrain from laying carpet on concrete or damp floors.
- Opt for furniture and window coverings not made of fabric.
- Consider professional cleaning services or vacuum fabric furniture and carpets weekly using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter.
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water and dry it in a hot dryer.
- Contemplate central air conditioning with a HEPA filter attachment to trap outdoor mold spores.
- Lower the thermostat to 70 degrees and use a dehumidifier to reduce dust mite presence.
- Eliminate sources of dampness in basements, such as pipe leaks or groundwater seepage. Use a dehumidifier in any area of your home that smells musty or damp.
- Remove mold from hard surfaces using a solution of water, detergent, and 5% bleach.
- Run the fan during and after showers.
- Promote groundwater drainage by clearing leaves and vegetation around the foundation.
- Avoid storing old books and newspapers in damp places.
- Maintain cleanliness in your house, including kitchen floors, sinks, counters, and stoves.
- Consult a pest control company or exterminator.
- Opt for soy and stearin candles instead of heavily scented and paraffin candles.
- Avoid using candles in small, enclosed spaces.
- Ensure the fireplace flue is open before use.
- In wood-burning fireplaces, use thoroughly dried wood and avoid burning painted or stained wood.
- Lastly, part ways with that Christmas tree.
- Get Tested
If you suspect you have an allergy, it’s essential to consult with your doctor. Accurate allergy testing is vital for effective treatment, given that there is no universal approach. There are different methods available for allergy testing. You can choose to undergo testing at a local lab facility, have a medical professional conduct a swift blood draw at your home or office, or opt for a blood collector kit for at-home use, which can be shipped back once the test is complete.
- Renew Your Prescriptions
If you’ve undergone an allergy test in the past but haven’t visited your allergist recently, especially considering the impact of Covid, it’s understandable. To maintain optimal health, make sure your medications are up-to-date and effective. A board-certified allergist can create a personalized plan tailored to address your specific allergies and asthma.
- Revitalize Well-being with Allergy Immunotherapy:
Immunotherapy offers a lasting solution to eliminate allergies, distinguishing itself from antihistamines by addressing the root cause rather than merely alleviating symptoms. This progressive treatment gradually exposes individuals to small doses of allergens, systematically increasing to reduce sensitivity and enhance overall immunity. While subcutaneous allergy shots have a century-long history, advancements in the process now allow for the convenient self-administration of allergy drops under the tongue at home. This eliminates the need for weekly injections at the doctor’s office, providing a cost-effective and convenient alternative.
The popularity of sublingual allergy immunotherapy is gaining momentum, with an increasing number of patients opting for this method. Curex, a prominent distributor of allergy drops, has recently disclosed a user base exceeding 150,000.
Curex extends its allergy immunotherapy offerings to address various allergens, including those associated with cats, dogs, pollens, molds, and dust mites. Through a virtual appointment at Curex, individuals can consult with a doctor, undergo necessary tests, and receive personalized drops—all within the comfort of their homes.
- Strengthen Respiratory Health Against Viruses
Emphasizing the pivotal role of preventive measures in upholding public health, there is an intensified focus on safeguarding against respiratory viruses, such as the flu. Individuals, particularly those with asthma, are encouraged to prioritize vaccinations, not only for influenza and COVID-19 but also for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
- Nurture a Consistent Exercise Routine:
Prioritize the upkeep of a consistent exercise regimen, especially during this season when overall health is paramount. For individuals with asthma, consulting your allergist is key; they may recommend using pre-exercise asthma medication before engaging in workouts. Incorporate effective warm-up exercises and ensure a thorough cool-down period. In adverse weather conditions, opt for indoor workouts or use a mask or loose scarf to alleviate potential environmental triggers. Embrace the benefits of yoga, which, with its associated deep breathing practices, has proven effective in managing symptoms associated with asthma.
- Uplift Your Mental Well-being for a Healthier, Symptom-Free Life!
Strengthening mental health not only enhances overall well-being but also fortifies the body’s resilience. Stress can adversely impact allergy and asthma sufferers, exacerbating symptoms. Combat stress with calming therapies such as meditation or relaxation apps incorporated into your nightly routine. Establish a serene bedtime ritual to promote symptom improvement. Engaging in joy-inducing activities and incorporating soothing music can significantly contribute to both mental and physical health.
Summary:
Prepare for winter allergies by understanding their sources. Dust mites thrive in warm environments, mold grows in damp areas, and household pets can trigger allergies. Cockroaches, fireplaces, and Christmas trees also pose risks. Safeguard your home with proper ventilation, regular cleaning, and consider allergy immunotherapy for lasting relief. Prioritize mental well-being, exercise, and preventive measures to fortify respiratory health against viruses. Stay informed and consult your allergist for personalized strategies.