It's winter and that means it's cold and flu season, and for 40 million Americans who suffer from allergies, this time of year can be much worse. However, how do you know if your sneezing is a cold or an allergy?
“A common cold comes on relatively suddenly. It will last two to three weeks and then get better. If you have persistent symptoms, going on for two, three months, that certainly suggests an allergy," said Dr. David Shulan, an allergist.
Winter brings a lack of fresh circulating air, which is a breeding ground for dust mites. Fight the mites by reducing the humidity in your home with a dehumidifier and wash bed linens in very hot water, weekly. Pet allergies are also worse in the winter. If the dander in kitties kick up your allergies, a weekly bath will help, that's if they let you.
In addition, if you vacuum frequently either the carpet or the bedding according to Dr. Shulan you could be making thing worse.
“You can't get the dust mites out of the bed. Trying to vacuum the bed is an exercise in futility. Vacuuming more frequently is some studies have actually shown to worsen the symptoms because you are actually throwing the material into the air," Shulan said.
It's winter, and that means it's cold and flu season, and for 40 million Americans who suffer from allergies, this time of year can be much worse. However, how do you know if your sneezing is a cold or an allergy?
Keep bathtubs and shower curtains clear of mold and mildew. If you begin to sneeze after you cut down your fresh Christmas tree, there's a reason why.
"There can be mold on live Christmas trees but also what we found the nice pine scent that the Christmas trees have can act as an respiratory irritant and can bother people, so a lot of people through a non-allergic mechanism," said Shulan.
The same thing goes for scented candles. If you have a reaction, you probably should pass on them.
Because allergies can start at any age, some adults aren't aware of the typical symptoms, which include watery, itchy eyes, sneezing and coughing. Most people find relief with over the counter antihistamines like Zyrtek or Allegra but if your symptoms persist, consult an allergist.