For those of you who suffer from allergies, you may look forward to the fall and winter months as somewhat of a reprieve. However some of you may still feel the effects of allergies even in the winter. How can this be when spring and summer pollen are gone? Well your home still carries many allergens. Pet dander, dust mites, molds, and even cockroach feces. ENT Specialists will share a few tips on how you can combat these allergens and provide a remedy for your home.
One of the biggest complaints of winter allergies is that the cold dry air aggravates one’s sinuses, and even can cause nose bleeds. Cold dry air combined with allergies to dust, pet dander, molds, and other allergens can wreak havoc on your sinuses. One of the most effective ways to prevent your sinuses from drying out while you combat your allergies is to have a humidifier. Adding moisture to the air will prevent your sinuses from drying out. Using a humidifier is a double edged sword though. Too much humidity can cause molds. They can also cause dust mites to become stronger and more of a problem. This of course doesn’t help anyone fighting those allergens inside your home. That is why you will need a perfect balance of humidity in your home. Most will suggest 50% humidity. This level is recommended to help keep your sinuses moist and the dust mites and mold down to a minimum.
If you suffer from allergies it is also recommended that you remove the carpets from your home. The carpet fiber holds and house many indoor allergens. Dust mites, pet dander and even mold grow quite well in carpets. If possible having wood or tile floors is best for those with allergies. If you can’t part with your carpet for any reason, be sure to regularly have your carpets steam cleaned to remove those allergens from your carpets. Also vacuum regularly, to remove pet dander, dust, and dust mites. You will find your suffering will greatly improve by keeping carpets cleaned.
If you have furry pets, especially dogs and cats, you should bathe them regularly. Some will say weekly, but this may depend on how often your pets are outside. Over bathing can be bad for your pet’s coat. You will need to find a balance as to how often you can bathe your pet and not suffer from those nasty allergens.
Washing your bedding is also important when it comes to fighting allergies to dust mites. Dust mites thrive in bed sheets and mattresses. To keep them away you should wash your bedding once a week. When washing your bedding, make sure you wash it with hot water. The heat will kill the dust mites, and make them allergen free.
Winter isn’t the safe haven from allergies as many people believe it to be. Many of us have to continue to battle allergies all year long. As this winter season approaches, you can make preparation now to avoid sinus irritation. Consider it time for fall cleaning, to clean up all the dust, molds, dust mites, and yes cockroach feces. ENT Specialists hopes we were able to help those that suffer from winter allergies. If you find you need more assistance or help we are here for you.
