Most of us are more prone to allergies in the hotter months . However, winter allergies can take on a whole new meaning and most often we are down with unexpected symptoms like runny nose, cough, cold, flu and what not. Hence, care must be taken in order to prevent the allergies. Staying indoors with the heater on is the perfect set up for an allergy to set in. The dust, mould and mildew that have got accumulated inside these gadgets suddenly find an outlet and things can go seriously wrong. Here are some suggestions as to what to do and what not.
Do’s
a. First and foremost, it is important to keep away from known allergens that can cause the problem. Keep your house clean and tidy, free from dust, mould and dust mites and ensure that pets do not have access into the house. Showering frequently will help individuals who have a weak immune system to cope with dust and mould.
b. Bed linen has to be given particular attention as bedroom is a place where you sleep. Change the sheets once a week to prevent dust mites from multiplying. You may also get anti allergy bedding and bed covers if you are highly susceptible to winter allergies.
c. Heaters cause the air indoors to dry up which can irritate your respiratory system. You may use a humidifier, saline spray and neti pots for nasal irrigation in such cases. Throat dryness can also be combated by drinking plenty of fluids all throughout the winter months.
d. For people who are extremely vulnerable to allergies, taking allergy medication becomes a pre-requirement. You may use light anti-histamines to control the symptoms. Consult a doctor for guidance and prescription of medications for specific allergies that can become worse with passing time.
Don’ts
Along with the precautions for preventing allergies, there are certain things that you must refrain from doing as well to stop allergic manifestations.
a. Lack of ventilation can lead to dust and dirt form setting in, causing allergies. Ensure that there is proper air circulation inside the house by leaving the windows open for some time.
b. Many of us forget to clean and replace furnace vents which are a serious cause for allergies. Furnace filters are dangerous areas where dust can set in without our knowledge.Furnace filters must be changed at least once in a month.
c. Keeping the windows and doors closed will encourage the growth of dust mites, cockroaches and other pests. It will also pollute the air with the emissions form cigarettes, wood burning stoves, kerosene lanterns etc. Make sure that the indoor air quality is maintained through exhaust fans, air conditioners and by keeping the windows and doors open.
d. Moulds that thrive in winter are another reason for winter allergies. Do not let moisture to settle in. Ensure that areas that are moist like kitchen, basement areas, bathrooms etc. are kept dry and clean at all times. Walls too are areas where mould growth will be encouraged in the winter months as water vapour condenses on the walls.
FAQs
1. How are common winter allergies treated?
Winter allergies are mostly treated with antihistamines and decongestants to prevent allergic reactions and to combat coughs, colds etc. Most of them are available without a prescription, unless you have very severe allergies. However, OTC antihistamines can cause drowsiness and you must be careful to get a prescription anti-histamine which is non drowsy of you want to stay active.
2. Why should pets be kept outdoors?
Keeping your pets indoors is the perfect recipe for allergies to surface. The more your pets linger inside, especially on upholstery and bedroom, the more pet dander they deposit on these areas. Since pets tend to roam outdoors, they carry a lot of dust and moulds on their body which they deposit indoors. Make sure that your pets are bathed weekly once and their body dried in the sun to prevent allergens form entering your house.
3. How can we keep the house allergen free?
It is a good idea to vacuum clean your house regularly to discourage the settling in of allergens. Ensure that you wear a good mask while dusting and cleaning, failing which you can fall sick with cold and cough. Investing in a good air purifies helps too as they can remove almost all airborne pollutants that cause allergies.
