How to Overcome Fall and Winter Allergies

Fall and winter are often the most difficult times for people with allergies. The days are shorter, there is more rain and it’s cold outside. Luckily, allergies aren’t something you have to just accept, especially when there are numerous ways to combat these symptoms. Whether it’s a scratchy throat or simply itchy, watery eyes, consider the following methods you can utilize to get much-needed relief.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Allergy Treatment

OTC allergy treatment can help to reduce your symptoms associated with fall and winter allergies. Many people are looking for relief from their runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, coughing or other discomforts that come along with the colder weather. And while many turn to antihistamines as a way of relieving these uncomfortable symptoms, you may be aware of the side effects these medications can cause. OTC allergy treatment is a good alternative for those looking to avoid antihistamines and other types of OTCs as well as relieve their fall allergies symptoms without any adverse side effects. There are many different forms of treatments available on the market that will help to reduce your runny nose, watery eyes and other allergy symptoms.

Allergy Shots

Allergy shots are the best way to start getting rid of your allergy symptoms. These injections can help you manage and control your hay fever by suppressing your immune response. This means that instead of overreacting when pollen comes around, causing sneezing or itchy eyes, an allergic reaction occurs at a much lower level. Allergy shots are available in two different forms for children and adults, either subcutaneous or intramuscular injections.

Nasal Sprays

Allergies are a common problem during the fall and winter months. There are numerous over-the-counter options available, but some people have to resort to nasal sprays that can cause serious side effects such as addiction. It is best for those with allergy symptoms regularly to consult with their physician.

Sanitize Your House Regularly

Some of the most common allergens are dust, pollen, mold spores and dander. When these things get out of control in your house or apartment – and they will if you don’t regularly clean up after yourself – you can experience significant allergy symptoms that range from sneezing to coughing to wheezing. And even though the symptoms may be mild, they can still make you feel awful and interfere with your ability to do things like go to work and school. By sanitizing regularly, you will be able to eliminate some of these allergens that cause problems.

Improve Indoor Quality

Pollutants such as dust mites, mold spores and dander can occur indoors. These irritants are major causes of allergies that affect the respiratory system. In addition, indoor pollution is a significant problem during the fall and winter months due to household activities that cause pollutants to become airborne. Addressing this issue includes keeping indoor surfaces clean and laundering bedding weekly at high temperatures. Additionally, use an air purifier in your home or bedroom if needed. Those who have pets may want to consider getting rid of them since they threaten those sensitized or allergic to animal dander. Finally, keep windows closed when there is pollen outside and after dark since these are peak times for pollen release.

Get Rid of House Mold

House mold can grow in any damp area of the house, and it can start to smell. This means you need to get rid of house mold immediately if you want your home to smell fresh and clean. House mold spreads quickly, so check every room for signs of growth and moist places such as behind furniture, under carpets, around windows and vents, wherever water may accumulate. If you see a problem with moisture, then look into getting an extractor fan installed. These are great ways for removing excess water from your property which will help reduce the amount of condensation inside walls and ceilings. If you have a crawl space, make sure that it is adequately ventilated with small holes or an air-duct from the floor to the outside of your house; this will allow moisture to escape and keep humidity levels down. If there are any mold stains on walls, ceilings and floors, try cleaning them as soon as possible with bleach water. Allergies are a serious issue that cause many problems for those who experience them. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to minimize the discomfort and pain of your allergies. If you put a bit of effort into caring for yourself, then it is sure to pay off. You can learn more about Mountain Ear, Nose & Throat Associates by calling our team at one of the following office locations:

• Sylva: 828-586-7474
• Franklin: 828-524-5599
• Murphy: 828-835-1014
• Asheville: 828-458-8100.