How to Overcome Fall and Winter Allergies

If you live in an area that makes you more prone to seasonal allergies in the winter and fall, then it really can be tough and make you miserable. You are not alone though, as over fifty million Americans are reported to experience allergies each year. Allergies are also one of the top causes of chronic illness in the US, so knowing how to deal with them and overcome them is really important.

What Causes Allergies?

To put it simply, allergies are caused by an allergic reaction. Your body has an overreaction of the immune system to something, classed as an allergen. A lot of allergens are seasonal and can be caused by things like pollen. If they are untreated, then allergies can lead to long term problems like asthma or rhinitis.

You might think that allergies are just being common in spring and summer, as pollen and grass can be common allergens and they are in abundance at those times of year. However, there are still plenty of allergens around in the fall and winter seasons. There may not be pollen around in the air during these times, which can be a relief for some people. But in fall and winter, there are a lot of indoor allergens around. That is why knowing how to treat allergies all year round is important.

Overcoming Allergies

If you want to stay healthy and free from allergies over the fall and the winter, then you need to look after yourself. It can start with something as simple as avoiding situations where people who have been coughing and sneezing are, as well as washing your hands thoroughly after touching doors in public, for example. These are small and simple steps that can stop any fall and winter allergies in their place, and avoid any sore throats, sniffles and earaches.

Your local ENT doctor is always there for you too when you do get sick.

Clean Regularly

By wiping down and cleaning the surfaces in the house that get the most touched, and will therefore be the most covered in germs, you can help yourself a lot. This is a good habit to get into all year round.

Wash Hands Thoroughly

Washing hands is something that is so important. Germs, allergens and viruses can only enter your body unless you give them a way in. Touching something infected and then eating something, without washing hands, means you’ve given them that way in.

Clear Allergens from Your Home Where Possible

If allergies are untreated, then they can lead to some bigger problems like a sinus infection. If you have known allergens, such as dust-mites or mold spores, then you can do what you can in your home to eliminate these and to keep you feeling as well as possible. If you find that pet hair is an allergen for you, then you could limit where your pet is allowed to be in the home, such as not allowed in the bedroom, as an example.

Find Ways to Strengthen Your Immune System

If your immune system is weaker, then you will be more prone to allergies. There are a number of medications that can be taken over the counter that can help to boost your immune system, but there are things that you can do yourself, such as getting plenty of sleep. By getting the rest that you need, you will be giving your body a chance to stay healthy.

Something else to consider, that takes its toll on your immune system is stress. You will be more vulnerable to allergens and bacteria when your immune system is lower and you are feeling stressed.

Get in Contact with Us Today

Allergens will always be there, but there are things that you can do to help overcome these seasonal allergies. At ENT Physicians Inc., we offer the latest treatments that are tailored to fit your individual needs. We take the time to listen to you, to make sure that treatments will be specific for you.

Our team of physicians have extensive experience with seasonal allergies and the impact that they can have. So why not find out more about us and give us a call at (419) 318-4987 today? Get in touch to schedule an appointment.