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Common Winter Allergens

Pet Dander: Even if you keep your pets indoors, their dander can trigger allergies. Pets groom, scratch, and move around, releasing dander that embeds itself in furniture, bedding, and carpets.

Dust: Dust is ubiquitous and contains various allergens, such as skin flakes, hair, and insect parts. Carpets, furniture, window treatments, and bedding are common dust catchers.

Dust Mites: These microscopic creatures thrive in bedding, furniture, and carpets, feeding on skin cells, insect parts, and animal dander.

Mold: Mold can thrive in dark, moist places, like bathrooms, basements, and under sinks, and is a typical winter allergy trigger.

Winter Allergy Symptoms

The symptoms of winter allergies are familiar to those who experience seasonal allergies throughout the year.

These may include:

• Watery and itchy eyes
• Nasal congestion
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Skin-related symptoms like rashes or dry, itchy skin

Differentiating Winter Allergies from Colds

Since colds and flu are prevalent in winter, distinguishing between winter allergies and a common cold can be challenging.

A key differentiator is the duration of symptoms. Allergies persist as long as the allergen is present, while colds typically last several days to a week.

If your symptoms persist beyond the 10-day mark, it is likely allergies.

Managing Winter Allergies

Taking proactive steps to manage winter allergies can significantly reduce symptoms. Here are some practical tips:

• Keep your home clean: Regularly dust and vacuum, including under and behind furniture.
• Reduce dust-catching fabrics: Opt for hard floors instead of carpets and minimize the use of decorative pillows or throws.
• Use hypoallergenic covers: Cover mattresses and pillows to reduce exposure to dust mites.
• Wash your fabrics and pets regularly: Clean curtains, bedding, and pillows in hot water often, and groom your pets frequently.
• Control humidity: Use a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed to avoid extremes and reduce mold growth.
• Air purifiers: Consider purchasing air purifiers and cleaning your HVAC filters periodically to keep indoor air clean.

When to Seek Emergency Care

While managing allergies is important, knowing when to seek emergency care is crucial.

If breathing is compromised, or there are signs of swelling, especially in the face or tongue, seek immediate medical attention.

Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea and a rash, may indicate a severe allergic reaction requiring emergency care.

Remember, if symptoms escalate, seeking prompt and specialized care is crucial. Angleton ER is your best option for fast, personalized care, open 24/7 with specialized ER doctors and nurses ready to care for your entire family.