As the vibrant colors of fall transition to the colder months, many look forward to cozy sweaters, holidays, and crisp air. However, for allergy sufferers, fall and winter can bring a host of irritating symptoms. In addition to the well-known spring and summer allergy triggers, such as pollen and grass, the colder months present unique challenges.
In this blog, Dr. Timothy Queen, founder of Advanced ENT & Allergy in Newport News, VA explores the causes, symptoms, and management strategies for fall and winter allergies.
Common Triggers of Fall and Winter Allergies
While spring and summer allergies often come from pollen, fall and winter allergies are driven by other culprits. With windows closed and heating systems running, the winter season brings specific allergens that can worsen symptoms, particularly indoors. Here are the most common triggers:
- Ragweed Pollen: Ragweed is a hardy plant that grows almost anywhere, producing pollen that can travel hundreds of miles through the air. It is responsible for many fall allergy symptoms.
- Peak Season: August to November, with the heaviest impact in early fall.
- Symptoms: Sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion
- Mold Spores: Mold thrives in damp environments, such as fallen leaves and compost piles, which are plentiful in fall. Indoor mold can also become a concern as you spend more time indoors.
- Peak Season: Late summer to early winter.
- Symptoms: Coughing, wheezing, nasal congestion, and eye irritation.
- Dust Mites: These microscopic insects live in household dust and tend to be more active when heating systems are turned on in cooler months. Dust mites thrive in the warm, humid conditions inside your home.
- Peak Season: Year-round, with a spike in winter.
- Symptoms: Sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and respiratory irritation.
- Indoor Mold: With limited ventilation, mold can grow in damp areas such as basements, bathrooms, around windows or around HVAC systems. Limited ventilation and excess humidity indoors encourage mold accumulation.
- Peak Season: Fall through winter, as humidity levels can vary indoors.
- Symptoms: Coughing, wheezing, nasal congestion, and eye irritation.
- Pet Dander: Pet dander consists of tiny flecks of skin shed by pets, which increase as people spend more time indoors with animals.
- Peak Season: Year-round but can be more problematic in fall and winter due to increased time indoors.
- Symptoms: Sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, nasal congestion, and respiratory irritation.
- Dry Indoor Air: While not an allergen, dry indoor air can irritate the respiratory system, exacerbating allergy symptoms.
- Peak Season: Winter, especially when indoor heating is used frequently.
- Symptoms: Dry throat, itchy skin, nasal irritation, and aggravated allergy symptoms.
Managing Allergies During Fall and Winter
When it comes to managing allergies, a proactive approach can make a significant difference. Here’s how:
- Limit Outdoor Exposure: Avoid outdoor activities on high-pollen days or when there has been rain, which can stir up mold spores.
- Keep Indoor Air Clean: HEPA air filters can capture allergens like pet dander, dust, and mold spores, providing cleaner indoor air. Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter vacuum, dust surfaces and clean bedding in hot water weekly to minimize dust mites.
- Manage Humidity Levels: Dust mites and mold thrive in high humidity. Aim to keep indoor humidity around 40-50% to limit allergen growth while avoiding overly dry air. A dehumidifier in damp areas and a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels can be helpful as well.
- Medications and Treatments: Antihistamines can relieve symptoms like sneezing and runny nose, providing some relief. Allergy shots (immunotherapy) can be helpful if you have persistent symptoms since it offers long-term relief by gradually reducing your sensitivity to allergens.
If over-the-counter treatments aren’t enough, or if you experience persistent symptoms that interfere with daily life, it may be time to see a specialist. Dr. Queen and the team at Advanced ENT & Allergy can help you identify your specific allergens and develop a tailored treatment plan.
If you have questions or are interested in scheduling a consultation, please reach out to Dr. Timothy Queen and his caring team at https://www.entallergy1.com/contactus
