The causes of allergies are different in summer and winter. During these colder months, they are caused by substances present in our interiors, such as dust mites or animal hair.
- Some allergies are particularly pronounced in winter.
- They are linked to the fact that we spend more time indoors.
- They can be caused by dust mites, mold, pets or even cockroaches.
Allergies don’t give you a break, even in winter. Although these reactions are often associated with pollen and other grasses, they can also appear during the cold season. But the causes are not the same. Sandra Hong, allergist, provides some details on this subject on the site from the American Cleveland Clinic.
Winter allergies are linked to our interiors
This specialist explains that these symptoms appear when we spend more time indoors. These are “chronic indoor allergies to which you are more exposed at certain times of the year”she specifies. They are linked to the presence of allergens in homes. The allergist cites scientific research which demonstrates that more than 99% of homes contain at least one allergen and that nearly three-quarters of homes contain three to six.
What causes winter allergies?
Among the substances and other materials responsible for winter allergies, the specialist cites four main ones. Mites are the first: “soft surfaces like beds serve as primary habitat for these insect-like creatures.”she says. It even reveals that a simple mattress can contain up to ten million dust mites.
Mold can also trigger allergies. “Think of floating mold spores as indoor pollenalerts Sandra Hong. Mold is a fungus that thrives in humid environments.” It can appear on a variety of surfaces, including paper products, wood, drywall, and upholstery.
In third place, the allergist cites our faithful companions, pets. “Dogs, cats and other furry friends may be adorable, but they’re also the source of many allergens.”she warns. Birds can also be responsible for allergic reactions.
Finally, it warns about cockroaches. When present indoors, they leave behind feces, sputum and eggs which can trigger allergies.
How to reduce the risk of allergies in winter?
To limit the risk of allergic symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose or asthma attacks, the American allergist provides some advice. The first is the most basic: keeping your interior clean. She therefore advises using bleach in bathrooms, kitchens and basements to reduce the risk of mold, vacuuming regularly, washing sheets regularly to limit the development of dust mites. She also cites hypoallergenic bedding. “Investing in hypoallergenic pillowcases, mattress covers and blankets can reduce your exposure to dust mites and perhaps help you sleep better.”she advises. Finally, it is advisable to bathe animals once a week to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. If you discover a pest, such as cockroaches, in your home, it is urgent to act to prevent the infestation and thus prevent the spread of allergens.
