How To Treat And Prevent Common Winter Allergies?

An allergy is a common health issue that is experienced by many people, especially those who have weak or oversensitive immune system. If you are allergic to pollen, you may have a sigh of relief when the atmosphere gets cold. However, if you have allergies due to dust mites or mold in indoors, especially during winter months, your complaints may aggravate and trouble you.

Allergies can occur due to oversensitive, weak or underdeveloped immune system. There are certain triggering factors (allergens) that give rise of allergies. When the atmosphere gets cold and your heating furnace kicks on it, your internal environment is polluted with dust, molds and pathogens (viruses). They can accumulate into your nasal passages, giving rise to allergic reaction. These allergens are found in bedding, mattresses and furniture, which become airborne, producing allergic symptoms.

Other allergens responsible for winter allergies are pet dander, mold and other environmental pollutants. Usually, when an allergic reaction takes place, the weak or oversensitive immune system fails to combat allergens, causing inflammation and irrational of nasal passages or upper airways.

Symptoms of common winter allergies –

•        Frequent sneezing
•          Itchy and runny nose
•          Nasal congestion
•          Coughing
•          Red and watery eyes
•          Mild fever
•          Headache

How to differentiate the signs and symptoms of winter allergies and common cold or flu? Symptoms of flu or cold may not last for greater than 10 days. On the other hand, allergic symptoms can affect you for weeks or months. The most distinguishing factor between them is high-grade fever with pains and aches that is seen in flu.

If the above mentioned symptoms persist for more than a week, immediately seek medical help. The doctor may refer you to a specialist who deals in allergies. You may have to undergo a small skin test and blood test to diagnose certain types of allergies.

Treatment for winter allergies –

Usually, seasonal allergies are treated with a combination of over-the-counter (OTC medications) and decongestants. The basic idea is to stop the body from releasing histamine, a chemical that is responsible for inflammation and allergic symptoms. Treatment include –

•   Antihistamines – Generic Zyrtec, Generic Xyzal, Generic Claritin, Generic Alavert or Generic Allegra
•   Decongestants – Generic Flonase or GenericOmnaris
•  Allergic shots – Help reduce allergic symptoms for longer duration than other drugs

Prevention of winter allergies –

Listed are few winter safety tips that control your allergy –

• Get rid of allergens – Wash your carpet, wallpapers, curtains and furniture that are accumulated with mold. In short, keep your surroundings clean with disinfectants.
•  Wash your bed sheets, pillow covers in hot water every week. You can use allergy-proof covers on comforters, pillows and mattresses.
•  Use dehumidifier to eradicate mold and dust mites.
•  If you have a pet, make sure you give it a bath once a week. More importantly, do not let it sleep in the bedroom.
•   You can consider having an artificial tree, as mold and chemicals surround live trees, which can trigger allergic symptoms.

So if you are a victim of winter allergies, make sure you consult your doctor before planning to use any OTC medications or decongestants. Also, ask him/her about the natural ways that strengthen your immune system.