Shut Inside this Winter?

We shut out winter's cold by sealing windows, cutting drafts and weatherproofing our living areas.  And as we insulated ourselves from the outdoors, we are also sealing in several allergens that can trigger allergy symptoms despite January's bitter temperatures.Pet dander.Your pets are your babies. They are spending less time outdoors and more time in the same dry air environment drying out their skin and yours. Pet allergy symptoms may increase during winter months. Give yourself a safe haven - don't let Fifi sleep on your bed or groom herself on the couch. Vacuum more often and have someone less susceptible brush your pets between groomings.Mold.As the heat inside goes up - moisture trapped in walls, basements and bathrooms can trigger mold growth. While most molds are benign, those susceptible to mold spores can find allergy symptoms disarming; troubled breathing, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, throat and/or inside of ears, hives, swollen eyelids, coughing, and wheezing.  A simple blood test can confirm if your symptoms are attributed to a mold allergy. If mold is to blame, it is important to remove the source of the mold to successfully eliminate it; repair leaks, ventilate the bathroom, discard old periodicals and newspapers and use a dehumidifier in damp basements.Stress.Although there is no "Allergy to People" diagnosis, as we are forced indoors we may find ourselves a little shorter with our coworkers, mates and children. Stress lowers immune responses and can lead to increases in cold and flu and even hives. Winter Blues (more casual connotation) or Seasonal Affects Disorder can be attributed to lack of quality time outdoors and decreased exposure to sunlight. For example, many of us are leaving for work at dawn and home after dark, missing out on sunlight and fresh air.  Maximize your exposure to sunlight, if possible sit near a window at work or lunch. Plan activities and outings to break up your winter routine. Vacation in the summer? Why not take a few days off in the winter to relax and unwind? For more serious depression, see a specialist.If you have any questions regarding winter allergy symptoms, feel free to give my office a call. I'd be happy to set up a consultation to help improve your quality of life; enjoy winter while waiting on spring.Having sinus problems? Visit this post for several tips to ease sinus pain