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Winter is all about warm sweaters, cloudy days, and hot chocolate, but it’s also about waves of allergies, at least for 8% of Americans.
Itchy eyes and runny noses are some of the signs of winter allergies. Instead of dreading winter, talk to our virtual doctor for allergies. Alternatively, read this guide to learn tips on managing your winter allergies.
Correct symptom identification is the first step to managing your allergies better. Here are common signs:
You can minimize the symptoms by following these easy and actionable tips:
You should balance the air dryness caused by your home’s heating system. A humidifier can balance the air quality inside the room. However, don’t overdo it, as it can lead to mold growth. Construction professionals and doctors recommend a 50% humidity level.
You can turn on the exhaust fan during cooking or showering to remove odors and excess humidity.
It’s important to stay hydrated during winter. Since we don’t sweat a lot, we don’t feel the need to drink water. Drink plenty of water so your body can fight the irritants.
Clean your home regularly to remove dirt and dander from the furniture, floor, and carpet. Use a vacuum cleaner to reduce the level of pet allergens and dust mites in the air. Mopping is an equally effective cleaning method.
If you have furry friends at home, you may want to follow a strict hand-washing routine. Wash your hands after playing with your pet so you can reduce exposure to allergens. You should also wash your hands when you come home from public spaces. It decreases the transmission of winter viruses.
To kill dust mites, you should clean your clothes and bedsheets with warm water. High heat kills allergens. If you can, you should add hypoallergenic mattresses and pillowcases for extra protection. These cases create a barrier between your nose and dust mites.
We spend the most time in our bedroom, so you should create an allergy-safe space. There should be the fewest allergy triggers in your bedroom. Keep plants, pets, rugs, and carpets outside the room to prevent mold and dust mite growth.
You should also keep over-the-counter medication to relieve winter allergy symptoms. At TelMDCare, our internal and family medicine-certified online allergy doctors can prescribe winter allergy medication by working directly with local pharmacies. You can get your prescription filled out here or contact us for further consultation.