About Allergies During Winter

During the winter season, it can be difficult to distinguish an allergy from a cold. This is because both share symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, and congestion. But cold involves viral infections, while an allergy is your body’s immune system response to an irritant or trigger.

Cold may not last usually more than a couple of weeks, while allergies will continue as long as the allergen is present. The symptoms like itchy, watery eyes are typically a sign of an allergy while aches and fever are not associated with allergies. A cough may at times come with allergies but is more commonly a sign of a cold.

Treatment Options for Winter Allergy Symptoms

To treat allergy symptoms, the medical professionals cautions against older over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. Some of the drugs have too many side effects and people don't really understand how to match their symptoms to the product.

The active ingredient in the antihistamine Benadryl causes some tissues to dry out and promotes urinary retention. So, the people with prostate problems may have trouble urinating.

Prescription steroid nasal sprays are effective than the antihistamine tablets. Though the individual responses vary and the drugs are often used in combination.

You must talk to your Allergy Doctor and your pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medication, to discuss whether it's appropriate for your symptoms and potential side effects.

What Can You Do to Prevent Winter Allergies?

Though, it may not be feasible to get rid of winter allergies entirely. But, you can reduce exposure to allergens.

Asthma Allergy Doctor Suggest these Tips for minimizing Indoor Allergen Exposure in Winter:-

• You may use a humidifier to reduce dryness in the air.  But, avoid turning your home into a rain forest.

• You can avoid wall-to-wall carpeting. This provides a favorable environment for dust mites.

• It is essential to vacuum on a regular basis. You must use a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

• Wash the sheets weekly in hot water in order to kill dust mites, and use hypoallergenic cases for mattresses and pillows to keep dust mites trapped.