Understanding Winter Allergies

Discover what causes winter allergies and the steps you can take to manage your winter allergy symptoms.

Can You Get Allergies in the Winter?

If you’re a seasonal allergy sufferer, you might think you’re safe from allergens once the weather gets colder since there is less pollen in the air. However, it’s still possible for outdoor triggers, such as cedar and mold, to cause winter allergies.
 

What Causes Indoor Allergies During Winter?

Seasonal winter allergies also can be caused by indoor allergens, such as mold, dust mites and pet dander.
 

Dust Mites

Dust mites can be found everywhere – from your furnace and air filters, to your couch and bed. While there’s no getting rid of dust mites, there are ways to help manage your dust allergy. Beyond regularly vacuuming and washing your bedsheets in hot water, you also can run HEPA filters in the rooms you frequent most and replace your HVAC air filters.
 

Pet Dander

Pet dander and proteins from skin cells can cause an allergic reaction at any time of year, especially during the winter months when people spend more time indoors. If you think you have pet allergies, consult your allergist to confirm. When it comes to reducing your indoor allergies during winter, vacuuming can help reduce pet dander and other airborne allergens.
 

Winter Allergy Symptoms

When winter sets in and you feel less than your best, you might be tempted to blame your symptoms on the common cold. So how do you tell the difference between winter allergies and a cold? The answer is usually symptom duration. A cold typically lasts no longer than 10 days. Common winter allergies can hang around for weeks or months. If your symptoms last longer than a week, see a doctor.
 

How to Get Rid of Winter Allergies

Here are some things you can do to help minimize your symptoms if you have allergies in the winter:

• Check firewood. Prevent mold from entering the house by brushing off firewood before bringing it in, and only bring in what you plan to immediately use.
• Avoid smoke. Smoke can be tough on winter allergies. So, have your chimney cleaned each year and replace your fireplace screen with a fireplace door.
• Wipe your feet. Clean your shoes before stepping inside so wet leaves and other potential winter-allergy carriers stay outside.
• Be smart with storage. Store seasonal items in air-tight containers when not in use to help prevent dust and mold build-up.

Try ZYRTEC® for Winter Allergy Relief

In addition to keeping your home clean and tidy, ZYRTEC® can help provide relief from winter allergy symptoms. Try ZYRTEC® Tablets for relief that works fast and stays strong day after day. For help with congestion and sinus pressure, learn more about ZYRTEC-D® Tablets.