Winter Season: Steps to say goodbye to seasonal allergies

Suffering from running nose, sneezing, cough, and rashes on the skin? Read this!

A change in weather condition increasesthe cases of seasonal allergies with patients suffering from running nose, sneezing, cough, and rashes on the skin. Apart from these, some people also suffer from breathing problems, sore throat, itchy skin, etc.

House Dust mites - The microscopic bugs flourish in mattresses and bedding. When their droppings and remains become airborne, they cause allergy to people.

Indoor Mold - This fungus thrives in damp, humid areas such as basements, cellars, and bathrooms. When its spores get into the air, they can trigger an allergy.

Ms. Kanchan Naikawadi, Preventive Healthcare Specialist, Indus Health Plus says, "During winter season people also tend to fall prey to indoor allergies likedust mites, and indoor mold as they spend more time inside during this season. Mold and house dust mites can also trigger asthma, causing coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. There is also rise seen in pollution levels across city. To prevent such allergies it is advisable to keep the house and surrounding clean s well as maintain proper hygiene".

How to prevent allergies

The prevention of such allergies is a bithard unless the cause of the allergy is not known. In order to identify the cause of allergy i.e. whether it's from dust or the food, there is a specific blood test called comprehensive allergy test which is helpful. Once the cause of allergy is known then the necessary measures or treatment can be taken into consideration.

Prevention form mold and dust mites:

• Lower the indoor humidity
• Improve air flow in rooms
• Remove the sources of dampness
• Maintain proper hygiene in kitchen and bathrooms
• Regular cleaning of carpet and house

The dos and don'ts for someone who is allergic:

• Protect yourself from dust and pollution
• People should keep themselves covered so as to avoid exposure from sudden drop or change in temperature
• Use nasal sprays or regular nose blowing to expel out the allergens responsible for allergic reactions
• People suffering from the diseases like asthma and bronchitis should consult their physician and get their medication enhanced before the sudden change in weather
• Drink tea made with natural antihistamines, especially nettle leaf or ginger
• For people suffering from skin allergies or rashes should consult a doctor for anti-allergic tablets or ointments

The article has been contributed by Ms. Kanchan Naikawadi, Preventive Healthcare Specialist, Indus Health Plus