Since this winter was the fourth warmest on record, allergy season has already begun, which is bad for people who suffer from seasonal allergies. Whether you perceive winter as an allergy season depends on your particular sensitivity and triggers. In the winter, when colder climes force you to spend more time indoors daily, some allergens could cause problems. You start coughing, wheezing, and sneezing before you realize it.
How a Warm Winter Can Move up Allergy Season
Allergies begin in many areas of the country in early winter and last until the beginning of the summer. Plants may fertilize earlier in the winter if the temps are mild. Rapid plant growth and an increase in the mold are other effects of a stormy spring that can last well into the autumn. Many people assume their allergies go away, like the spring and autumn seasons. However, just because it’s winter and you’re spending more time inside doesn’t mean there aren’t any allergens around. More people remain inside during the winter to avoid the chilly weather outside. They might not be aware that interior allergens can be lurking all around them in their house.
The south experiences relatively warm winters and new studies have shown that these winters are making allergies more common. This December’s unusually warm temps have not been welcomed by everyone. In fact, allergies are a source of pain for those who have them. Instead of just waiting for allergy season to end, what can you do to avoid or treat these allergies?
- Vacuuming: Your flooring contains both human skin cells and pet dander. You might experience a severe allergic response if they are kept for an extended period of time. Make sure to vacuum to remove these particulates regularly.
- Plants: To get rid of the allergens in your residence, if you have ragweed allergies, remove the plants before they bloom. Serious allergens and violent sneezing can be brought on by plants.
- Nighttime showers: Make it a routine to take a shower before night. You travel to various locations throughout the day, which enables pollen to adhere to your skin and hair. If you don’t wash it off before bed, it will adhere to your pillow and bed sheets and irritate you every night.
- Avoiding Clothes Lines: Make it a routine to dry your garments inside, on a hanger, or in the dryer rather than outside. When you wear pollen-covered clothing afterward, you might experience an allergic reaction.
- Avoid Pets that can Cause Allergy Attacks: Pets can cause allergies in some individuals. Allergen-producing proteins can be detected in the animal’s saliva, dander (dead skin flakes), and urine. Getting a companion that a member of your family might be allergic to is not something you or your family should do. If you or a household member is allergic, it’s also advisable to restrict time spent at friends’ and family members’ homes with pets.
How All-American Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Can Help
Whether you need medication or allergy testing, our offices can help. Call us at (210) 226-3500 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Calais to learn more about how we can help relieve allergy symptoms.
