Do you notice red rashes breaking out on your face and hands during specific times of the year? Or do you frequently sneeze and catch a cold in winter, even if you don’t usually catch colds easily? These could be signs of seasonal allergy, which often worsen during the winter months. Winter allergies can be triggered by substances both inside and outside your home. Here, we highlight some common allergens that individuals prone to allergies should steer clear of.

Wood Smoke

As temperatures in India reach new lows during winter, warming your hands by the fire is a common sight inside and outside your home. However, the wood smoke emitted as residue can be a common culprit behind seasonal allergies for susceptible individuals. Moreover, wood smoke can exacerbate allergies caused by other allergens and pose risks to individuals with asthma.

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Dust

During winter, dust tends to accumulate more frequently in your home. The faster drying of the skin during winter leads to shedding more dead skin cells. Additionally, pet hair and clothing fibers floating inside your homes can intensify seasonal allergies. As we keep windows and doors closed in winter, dust particles accumulate indoors without exposure to outside air. Dust mites, which feed on this dust, could be another reason for worsening seasonal allergies or asthma.

Pollens

Those allergic to pollen often experience severe seasonal allergies in winter. Pollen released during winter, especially from house plants, can remain trapped inside the home, worsening allergies for sensitive individuals. This pollen can trigger the body to produce antibodies against allergens, releasing a chemical called histamine. Hay fever is a common symptom of seasonal allergy, and prompt treatment can provide effective relief.

Dry Air

Winters tend to remove moisture from the air, resulting in dry air that irritates the throat and nose, making individuals more sensitive to allergens. Using an air purifier or air filter is the best way to combat the occurrence of seasonal allergies at home.

Receiving an allergy shot before winter sets in can help reduce the risk of allergen sensitivity. If symptoms worsen over time and continue to impact your daily activities, be sure to consult a medical practitioner.