Winter Allergies
By: Janet Choi
Updated: December 22, 2009
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - Spring and summer are the two season more popular for bringing allergy misery, but winter can also torment those who suffer from allergies.
Allergy season refers to the time of year when there's a lot of pollen outside, but winter is nothing to sneeze at. Dust, mold and pets all trapped inside can make this time of year unbearable.
"As people spend a bit more time in the home, they're going to begin to see an increase in those kind of year-round allergies," said Dr. Sebastian Lighvani from New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell.
Lighvani said that a Christmas tree could be one of the majro culprits. "As the Christmas tree decays, you're going to get a higher concentration of mold released by that tree into the home."
Researchers also found that ornaments are often quite dusty, and within days trees will disperse mold spores into the air.
Spending more time inside can also make allergies flare up, but there are steps that people can take to minimize allergic reactions during the winter and holiday season.
Using a dehumidifier helps. Humidity is a breeding ground for mold and dust mites. Exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms will help circulate air.
Researchers also recommended keeping pets out of the bedroom.
Allergy season refers to the time of year when there's a lot of pollen outside, but winter is nothing to sneeze at. Dust, mold and pets all trapped inside can make this time of year unbearable.
"As people spend a bit more time in the home, they're going to begin to see an increase in those kind of year-round allergies," said Dr. Sebastian Lighvani from New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell.
Lighvani said that a Christmas tree could be one of the majro culprits. "As the Christmas tree decays, you're going to get a higher concentration of mold released by that tree into the home."
Researchers also found that ornaments are often quite dusty, and within days trees will disperse mold spores into the air.
Spending more time inside can also make allergies flare up, but there are steps that people can take to minimize allergic reactions during the winter and holiday season.
Using a dehumidifier helps. Humidity is a breeding ground for mold and dust mites. Exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms will help circulate air.
Researchers also recommended keeping pets out of the bedroom.
