Your feeling chilly, and then like clockwork you start sneezing and sniffling. You may wonder if you have a winter cold, but there may be something else causing you to feel miserable.
Although it is common to pick up a cold during the winter season, other irritants such pollen, dust mites, and mold spores may be mimicking cold symptoms.
When the temperature drops and your furnace kicks on, it sends the dust, mold spores, and insect parts that have settled over the summer whirling into the air. All of that stuff can get into your nose, and if you’re allergic, can trigger a reaction.
During an allergic response, the immune system goes into overdrive when it comes into contact with pollen, mold, and other allergens. A chemical called histamine is released, which triggers a runny nose, watery eyes, and other revealing symptoms of an allergy attack.
Since most people spend more time indoors during the winter months, indoor allergens become more of a problem.
Some common indoor allergy triggers:
Dust mites. These microscopic bugs thrive in mattresses and bedding. When their droppings and remains become airborne, they can cause allergy symptoms in people who are sensitive to them.
Mold. This fungus thrives in damp, humid areas such as basements and bathrooms. When its spores get into the air, they can trigger allergy symptoms. Although some people think they are allergic to Christmas trees, it’s actually not the trees, but the mold that can accumulate on them that is more likely to cause allergy symptoms.
Pets. Many people are unable to enter a home with pets due to this type of allergy. Unbeknowst to some, most people are not allergic to animal fur, but rather to a protein found in the dead skin flakes (dander), saliva, and urine. These proteins can be inhaled into the nose and mouth and cause a reaction.
Perfumes. Perfumes and colognes can cause mild breathing distress, and lead to skin reactions in some people with allergies and asthma. Air fresheners, lotions, and hairspray, can also evoke reactions in people with fragrance allergies.
Allergy symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, coughing, itchy eyes/ears/nose, watery eyes, and dark circles under the eyes.
Common treatments for winter allergies include: Antihistamines, Decongestants, and Allergy shots. Also, having the ducts cleaned in your home is a great way to remove dust mites, mold, and rodent feces.
So don’t let winter allergies ruin your holiday fun. With a little help from your physician and/or over-the-counter medications, you can enjoy your winter activities sneeze-free!
http://www.examiner.com/health-in-medford/winter-allergies-and-how-to-find-relief