Allergy season isn't confined to Springtime, fall and winter shifts in the weather and increased pollen in the air can cause a host of uncomfortable symptoms.
The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) has suggested the following tips for developing a action plan to combat fall and winter allergies:
Minimize Your Symptoms
Take over-the-counter allergy medicine for two to three weeks before symptoms begin. Plan to stop taking medication about two weeks after the first frost as pollen can linger, along with symptoms. If over-the-counter remedies aren't helping, ask your allergist is you are a candidate for allergy immunotherapy, available through shots and tablets.
Identify Your Triggers
Knowing what's causing your symptoms is half the battle. In addition to ragweed pollen, you may be allergic to environmental allergens like dust mites, mold or pet dander, all of which can make a return in fall when people spend more time inside. Schedule an appointment with a board-certified allergist who can provide testing, diagnosis, and a treatment plan that will help you feel better and live the life you want.
Be Proactive
Whether you're spending time indoors or outdoors, you can minimize your allergic reaction by thinking ahead on how to avoid triggers.
- If you have a mold allergy, see if a neighborhood teen might be willing to remove wet leaves and other sources that may contain mold. Better yet, have a family member who isn't allergic handle wet, moldy, debris from your yard and/or garden.
- Consider your asthma and stay up to date on recommended vaccines, such as flu, RSV, COVID-19, and pneumococcal that prevent respiratory infections.
- Take steps to minimize dust and pet dander, such as using an air purifier with a HEPA filter in your home.
- Change your clothes, take a shower, and leave shoes at the door to avoid tracking pollen and other allergens inside.
- Keep windows closed on high pollen days.
- Check out ACAAI's HOME Allergy Management Guide for additional tips.
Cleaning Your House Helps
Because you spend more time inside in winter, allergens like dust, mold, and pet dander can cause your symptoms to be worse. Cleaning your home may be one of the best ways to lower your exposure.
- Dust: Use a wet cloth to capture allergens.
- Vacuum: Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter.
- Pet Care: Have pets groomed regularly, wash your hands after petting them, and keep them out of your bedroom.
- Mold Remediation: Identify any mold growth in the home and remove it immediately. Don't allow standing water in bathrooms or your kitchen.
When to See an Allergist
If allergy and asthma symptoms are getting in the way of living your life and doing the things you want to do, now is the time to see a board-certified allergist who can help identify your triggers and develop a personalized allergy treatment plan.
