Mold or fungal growth indoors.
Due to increased humidity in winter, mold can appear, especially in areas with poor air circulation, such as bathrooms, basements, or outdated heating systems. In winter, windows are often closed, and heating can create ideal conditions for fungi to grow, as they thrive in damp environments. When mold grows on walls, ceilings, or furniture, it spores can spread through the air, leading to inhalation, which may result in the development of allergic rhinitis. To prevent mold growth, it’s important to ventilate the space periodically and take measures to control excess moisture. If you notice mold has already appeared, it is crucial to act quickly to eliminate it. There are many high-quality products available that can effectively combat this issue, but it’s essential to choose those that do not cause allergic reactions.
Chemical air fresheners or aroma diffusers.
In winter, it’s very common to want to add a festive aroma to your home, especially since during the cold season, we often don’t feel like airing out the rooms. To create a refreshing aroma, people often buy air fresheners or aroma diffusers with various scents (such as winter cherry, pine forest, gingerbread cookies). However, these products often contain chemical compounds and fragrances that can negatively affect well-being and trigger symptoms of this condition. Therefore, specialists recommend being mindful when choosing any home fragrances and selecting those with natural ingredients. Additionally, you can use essential oils that are suitable for you. These not only add a festive aroma but also help prevent seasonal illnesses.
Frequent colds.
When you catch a cold, the mucous membranes of your nose and throat become more susceptible to irritants. If a cold is not treated or occurs frequently, it can increase the body’s sensitivity to allergens such as pollen, mold, or pet dander. As a result, unpleasant symptoms may develop and worsen your overall well-being. If you notice any unpleasant changes in your well-being, be sure to consult a specialist, who, if necessary, will recommend the appropriate nasal sprays (such as Butacort, Alanase) or medications (such as Claritine, Aerius) to help reduce the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Additionally, maintaining proper hygiene and consuming foods that enhance the body’s immune defenses can help reduce the frequency of colds.
Sudden changes in air temperature from cold to warm.
When you go outside in the cold, your respiratory system adjusts to the low temperature, making the nasal mucous membrane more vulnerable. Upon entering a warm indoor space, the sudden change in temperature and humidity can irritate these mucous membranes, leading to inflammation. This can heighten sensitivity to allergens and trigger allergic rhinitis symptoms. Since such temperature fluctuations are stressful for the body, especially in individuals with a predisposition to allergies, they can worsen the condition.
Dust on pillows and bedspreads.
In winter, when it gets cooler, most people use warm blankets and add more decorative pillows, which bring coziness to the home. However, with windows often closed and the air in the rooms becoming drier, this promotes the accumulation of dust and allergens on pillows and bedspreads in the form of microscopic particles. As a result, during daily activities, you may unknowingly inhale this dust, which can trigger allergic symptoms. Even frequent washing of these items may not help much, as dust settles quickly again in dry environments. To minimize the impact of dust in winter, try not to use too many pillows and bedspreads. Also, choose materials that are not overly fluffy to avoid dust buildup.