Are allergy symptoms driving you crazy during the winter months? You’re not alone. One allergy specialist with the Mayo Clinic estimates that 5-20% of Americans have some type of winter allergy. That’s up to 65 million people!
What are Winter Allergies?
Winter allergies are simply allergies that are more prevalent in the colder months. These allergies include:
- Dust
- Mold
- Animal dander and saliva
What Causes Winter Allergies?
During the winter months, people tend to stay indoors more. While indoors, they are exposed to the triggers for winter allergies more often.
Turning on the heat or furnace for the first time of the year can also send allergens like dust, dander, and insects into the air, leading to an allergic reaction.
Animals also tend to spend more time indoors during the winter, so they spread their dander, saliva, and fur around the home more. This puts residents in the home into contact with these substances much more often, leading to allergic reactions.
What are the Symptoms of Winter Allergies?
There is no difference between the symptoms of winter allergies and allergies that occur during other times of the year. The most common allergy symptoms include:
- Itchy, watery, red, and/or swollen eyes
- Coughing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Facial pressure
Can I Have Winter Allergies During Other Seasons?
The triggers that cause winter allergies are around all year long, unlike outdoor triggers such as pollen. Even if it’s the middle of summer, if you are sensitive to a winter allergen like dust, you will have a reaction when you come into contact with it. It’s best to avoid your allergy triggers regardless of the season.
Allergy Testing in Tampa Bay
If you live in the Tampa Bay area and are suffering from winter allergies, we can help. At TLC Medical, you can walk into any one of our three convenient locations without an appointment for an allergy consultation and testing. We can help identify your allergy triggers, provide life-saving medications, and develop a holistic treatment plan. Call us at (813) 874-1852 or schedule an appointment online and enjoy the winter months without any allergy symptoms.
