More than 100 million people in the U.S. experience one or more types of allergies each year. Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to a substance (allergen) it believes is harmful by releasing histamine. Histamine release causes the symptoms associated with allergies, which may include but are not limited to:
- Hives
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Anaphylaxis
- Sneezing
- Coughing
Cold weather may increase the effect of your allergies in two ways, including:
- Exacerbating your symptoms
- Keeping you indoors
Let’s look at each of them a little more closely.
Cold Weather May Exacerbate Your Allergy Symptoms
Anyone who’s made it to the summit of the Arabia Mountaintop Trail only to be greeted with a runny nose or watery eyes knows the impact of cold weather on allergy symptoms. Cold air-induced rhinitis is a common complaint among individuals with allergic rhinitis.
One reason for the increase in mucus drainage when exposed to cold air is the irritation of the nasal lining. When exposed to cold air, the lining of your nasal passage becomes dry and irritated. As a result, it releases excess mucus to keep your nasal passage moist. Your eyes water for a similar reason. When in contact with cold air, the cushion of moisture that protects them dries out, leading to an over-production of moisture.
Staying Indoors Can Cause Allergies
Cold weather encourages us to stay indoors where it’s warm. While our houses keep us warm, they can be a breeding ground for allergens like dust, pet dander, mold and more. Keeping your house clear of allergens through a weekly winter cleaning will help keep your allergies at bay. Here are a couple of ways you can minimize common allergens:
- Dust. Dust mites are a common allergen. Sweep and mop your floors, wash blankets and pillows and wipe down hard surfaces weekly to prevent dust buildup.
- Mold. To keep mold at bay, run a dehumidifier during high-moisture days, run your bathroom fan for at least 20 minutes after a shower and clean your kitchen and bathroom regularly.
- Pet dander. If pet dander aggravates your allergies, bathe and brush your pets regularly to minimize dander and keep pets off the furniture as best you can.
For more information on managing your allergies, contact ENT of Georgia North today to make an appointment with one of our trusted specialists.
