Winter Allergies: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

What is a winter allergy? An allergy is a health condition that occurs when an individual’s immune system starts reacting to a foreign substance that is not harmful otherwise. It is a part of the human body’s defence mechanism and can be triggered by almost anything present in the environment. These elements, known as allergens, can be anything, including dust mites, pets, pollen, insects, ticks, certain food items, and medications as well. Although most of the allergies can occur throughout the year, some of them are more common in specific seasons, hence called seasonal allergies, and allergies during winter season are called a winter allergy.

What Is a Winter Allergy?

Winter allergies, as the name suggests, are seasonal allergies that occur in the winter. Since the temperature takes a dip during these months and the days are also relatively shorter, people spend more time in their houses. In such a situation, allergens that are already present in their home can enter the body, leading to an antibody response. Unlike any other seasonal allergy, symptoms of a winter allergy are somewhat similar to other health conditions that are common in this season, such as cold, cough, fever, watery eyes, etc. This is the reason why it gets a little difficult to differentiate between an allergic reaction and a common illness. However, having knowledge of common winter allergy symptoms is important for timely cold weather allergy treatment.

Generally, these allergic reactions are mild, and their symptoms of an allergy in the winter season can go away within a few hours or days. But sometimes these symptoms of allergies during winter can get worse and cause a number of complications, such as shortness of breath or conditions like hay fever, etc.

Differences Between Cold and Winter Allergy

After understanding what a winter allergy is, it is important to understand the difference between a cold and a winter allergy, so you can opt for the right winter allergy treatment.

Are Allergy Symptoms Worse During Winter?

The severity of a winter allergy depends on the body’s reaction and specific triggers. While pollen-induced allergies may subside when one is indoors, other winter allergies may feel more intense since the triggers may often be found inside the home or workplace, making it harder to avoid them.

Additionally, dry indoor air, caused by constant heating during winter, can also aggravate allergy symptoms. The lack of moisture dries out the skin and nasal passages, leading to irritation, cracking, and an increased risk of secondary infections or nosebleeds. This can make cold weather allergy symptoms feel more intense during the colder months.

Causes

There are several elements that can cause an allergic reaction. Here are a few major causes of some common winter allergies that occur in the winter season:

Animals: Yes, having pet animals in the house is one of the biggest and most common causes of allergic reactions. However, contrary to common belief, these reactions are not caused by animal fur. Most people are allergic to a protein that is found in pet dander, urine, and saliva.

Mold: Mold spores are one of the most common causes of winter allergies. All they need is a warm and humid environment in order to thrive, such as a basement or bathroom. These fungi can freely float in the air like pollen and can easily enter an individual’s body. They can trigger a number of allergic reactions, causing symptoms like irritation in the eyes and throat.

Dust Mites: Dust mites are microscopic bugs that can be found almost everywhere, from bedding to carpets, couch to floor. Their droppings and remains can become airborne, causing a number of winter allergy symptoms.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a winter allergy, or allergy symptoms in cold weather, can vary from one individual to another. However, there are a few warning signs that are very common, such as:

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Runny nose
• Chest congestion
• Excessive phlegm
• Skin rashes
• Low-grade fever
• Rapid breathing
• Itchy and watery eyes
• Sore throat

Diagnosis

Allergies are very common in every season, including winter, and their symptoms can go away on their own. However, certain allergic reactions can prove to be life-threatening. So, it is always important to watch out for some common warning signs and consult the doctor if they last more than a week. He/she may suggest a blood test for allergy identification, depending on one’s symptoms and medical history.

Healthcare providers may utilise various tests to accurately diagnose allergies:

• Skin Prick Test: Also known as a puncture or scratch test, this method evaluates immediate allergic reactions to multiple substances simultaneously. A small amount of a potential allergen is introduced to the skin, typically on the forearm or back, through a tiny prick or scratch. If a raised, red area (wheal) develops at the site within 15-20 minutes, it indicates a possible allergy to that substance.
• IgE Blood Test: This test measures the level of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the bloodstream. Elevated IgE levels suggest an allergic response, as these antibodies are produced by the immune system when exposed to an allergen. While the test indicates the presence of an allergy, it does not specify the exact allergen responsible.

Both tests are instrumental in identifying allergic sensitivities and guiding appropriate treatment plans. Further, iIf the doctor suspects that an allergic reaction is triggered by certain food items, he/she is likely to suggest food allergy testing. Also known as a food intolerance test, this helps to find out if an individual is allergic to a particular food.

Prevention

To reduce exposure to common indoor allergens during winter, consider the following measures:

• Protect Bedding: Encasing pillows and mattresses with allergen-proof covers can help keep dust mites at bay.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly wash bedding, clothing, and removable upholstery in hot water to minimise dust mites and pet dander.
• Control Humidity: Utilize a dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity between 30% and 50%, inhibiting mould growth and dust mite proliferation.
• Vacuum Regularly: Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to effectively remove allergens from floors and upholstery.
• Opt for Hard Flooring: Replacing carpets with linoleum, tile, or wood can reduce dust mite habitats.
• Address Mould: Clean mould-prone areas with a solution of water and 5% bleach, and promptly fix leaks to prevent moisture buildup.
• Eliminate Food Residues: Promptly clean up food crumbs and spills to deter pests like cockroaches.
• Seal Entry Points: Repair cracks and openings in doors, windows, and walls to prevent the ingress of pests and outdoor allergens.

Implementing these strategies can help create an indoor environment that minimises exposure to allergies during winter.

Treatment

Most allergic reactions can be easily treated at home, but some of them may require immediate medical attention. The doctor may suggest medicines like antihistamines and decongestants as part of allergy treatment. These medicines can ease the symptoms and give quick relief.

If an individual is experiencing some complications, such as hay fever, the treatment for winter allergy may take a little longer than usual. In such cases, the doctor may suggest immunotherapy that consists of allergy shots or under-the-tongue tablets. This helps to curb the symptoms for a longer period of time than other OTC medicines.