Living With Winter Allergies
When temperatures begin to drop, individuals with seasonal allergies may experience well-deserved relief from their symptoms. Unfortunately, those living with chronic allergies, asthma, psoriasis, or psoriatic arthritis are still vulnerable.
Common Causes of Winter Allergies and How to Avoid Them
The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), lists the following allergens as the most common causes of winter allergies:
Dust Mites
These microscopic insects are the most common trigger of indoor allergies. Dust mites are a year-round trigger; however, with colder temperatures, people tend to spend more time indoors and therefore are more likely to increase their exposer to this allergen.
How to Reduce Dust Mite Allergies
As their name suggests, dust mites thrive in places where dust can quickly accumulate, such as carpets, bedding, and upholstered furniture.
To reduce dust mites in your living space, consider:
- Installing wood floors instead of carpet
- Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter
- Use mite-proof cases on your mattresses and pillows
- Regularly wash your linens in hot water that is at least 130°F
- Install a high-efficiency disposable filter in your HVAC system
Pet Dander
People that experience allergic reactions after being in contact with animals are most likely allergic to the pet’s dander (dead skin flakes).
How to Prevent Pet Dander Allergies
Avoiding pet dander can be difficult since many workplaces, restaurants, and shops are now pet-friendly.
To help minimize pet dander think about:
- Using a vacuum with a HEPA filter
- Vacuum regularly
- Keep pets out of bedrooms and off of furniture
- Brush your pets daily in a designated area that is easy to clean
- Bathe your pets regularly
- Wash your hands with soap and water after petting or playing with pets
Mold
Mold is present both outdoors and indoors. It thrives in humid, moist environments such as bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.
When mold spores become airborne, it’s easy to breathe them in. Once inhaled, they can cause allergic reactions and increase the severity of asthma symptoms.
How to Prevent Mold Allergies
- Consider using a dehumidifier in your home’s humid areas, including bathrooms and basements, to prevent mold from proliferating
- Wear a mask when doing yard work or cleaning out damp areas in your home
- Bathe and clean your clothes afterward
- Rinse your nose with a saline solution to remove any mold spores
- Quickly fix any water leaks in your home
- Regularly clean out your refrigerator
- Clean your garbage cans frequently
Benefits of Biologic Treatments to Control Winter Allergies
Physicians often prescribe biologic treatments to treat asthma, psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis.
Biologic treatments can help decrease the rate of chronic condition flare-ups and improve patient quality of life.
Biologic treatments can also provide fewer adverse effects, which contribute to an increase in patient treatment compliance.
At Altus Infusion we continue to work with private practices and advocacy groups around the country to help make in-office biologic treatments more convenient and affordable for patients.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this blog regarding symptoms and possible treatment of illnesses is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Altus Infusion does not in any way guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of the information published in its blog and will not be held responsible for the content of any blog publication.
You should always consult your primary care physician for specific medical advice.
