Buzz
Allergy sufferers have already braved a particularly harsh spring, followed by months of persistent hay fever. As the weather cools, we might assume that relief is on the way, but that's not always the case.
While seasonal allergies may be fading in most areas, winter often brings the worst indoor allergens like dust, pet dander, and mold. It's tempting to dismiss sneezing and sniffles as just a cold, but winter allergies deserve more attention. Here’s where to begin.
What exactly are winter allergies?
The phrase 'winter allergies' actually refers to indoor allergies that persist throughout the year. However, these allergies tend to become more problematic and noticeable during the winter season. The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) identifies a few key reasons for this increase.
We tend to spend more time indoors and at home in general during the colder months.
As the temperature drops, we are more likely to keep our doors and windows closed. While this keeps the cold air out, it also traps allergens inside with us.
Forced air heating systems circulate the indoor air, along with any allergens it may contain.
Additionally, forced air heating can stir up dust that has accumulated on walls, woodwork, cabinet tops, and other surfaces that aren’t regularly cleaned.
As noted by the Allergy & Asthma Network (AAN), forced air heating—unlike the steam heating commonly used in older homes—lowers the indoor air's humidity, which can worsen allergy symptoms. Furthermore, dry air can cause our nasal passages to become cracked, sore, and more vulnerable to secondary infections.
If that wasn’t enough, prolonged exposure to indoor allergens can make our symptoms worse, according to the AAN. When we spend more time indoors, breathing in dry, recirculated, allergen-filled air, our bodies identify allergens like dust and pet dander as threats, triggering our immune system to attack. This exaggerated immune response may include increased mucus production, for example.
Here are some of the most common indoor allergens:
Dust
Microscopic dust mites (tiny arachnids that thrive in dust, with allergies resulting from a mix of their waste and body remnants)
Mold
Pet dander
Cockroaches (a mix of their droppings and discarded exoskeletons)
Rodent droppings, urine, dander, and parasites brought in by rodents looking for warmth during cold weather
What are the signs of winter allergies?
Winter allergies can cause symptoms similar to those of outdoor seasonal allergies, which can vary in combination from person to person. These symptoms can include:
Sneezing
Itchy, watery eyes
Runny nose
Blocked nose
Coughing
Postnasal drip
Sore or itchy throat
Rashes or dry, itchy skin
Headaches
Sleep disturbances
Wheezing and difficulty breathing (for individuals with allergic asthma)
How can winter allergies be managed?
While you can't completely eliminate your allergies, there are several steps you can take to control your winter allergies. Some of these methods include:
Keep up with cleaning: Don’t wait until spring. Begin with a thorough deep clean to eliminate dust, dander, mold, and other allergens, and follow up with regular cleaning, dusting, and vacuuming.
Use an air purifier: In this post, Mytour’s Senior Health Editor Beth Skwarecki provides guidance on what to consider when selecting an air purifier to help reduce allergy symptoms
Change your HVAC filter frequently: Replace it with filters rated with a MERV rating of 13 or higher.
Reduce your pet’s dander: Whether you have cats, dogs, or other furry companions, do what you can to limit their dander, based on the needs of your pet’s breed. This might include bathing them more often, less often, and/or brushing them outdoors.
If you’ve done everything you can at home and your winter allergy symptoms persist, reach out to your doctor—especially if you also have asthma, or if you suspect your symptoms have evolved into sinusitis or another secondary infection.
