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What's causing your cold weather allergies?

For some, winter's chill doesn’t keep allergy symptoms at bay. Find out which indoor triggers are causing your coughing, sneezing and watery eyes.

woman sneezing and blowing nose
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Freezing temperatures might bring allergy sufferers relief from coughing, sneezing and watery eyes, but not everyone is in the clear. Millions of people have perennial allergic rhinitis—or year-round allergy symptoms—and are often sensitive to indoor triggers, like dust and dander. It's a big problem in the winter months, when you spend more time inside with doors andShow More

Young woman sick with runny nose blanket allergies
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Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

Typically, your immune system protects against bacteria and viruses. But if you have an allergy, your body reacts disproportionately to something that normally should not cause a reaction. Though we don't know why allergies develop, says Dr. Schecker, "we know these things seem to be inherited."

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woman with dog
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Allergen: Pet Dander

Pet allergies are common but those with a family history of allergies or asthma may have a greater risk. Symptoms can appear within minutes of exposure to a cat, dog or any animal with fur, or take up to 12 hours to develop.

If you know you are allergic to certain pets, the best thing youShow More

rubber duck on bath
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Allergen: Mold

Mold needs moisture to grow, so it's typically found in damp places, like bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms and the soil of house plants. It releases tiny spores into the air that can hide in fabrics, carpets, stuffed animals, the soil of some houseplants and on wallpaper.

To stop the spread, useShow More

woman dusting house
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Allergen: Dust Mites

These mites—which live in house dust—are too small to see with the naked eye and thrive in warm, humid climates. The three most common hiding places, according to Schecker: the bed or mattress, carpeting and upholstered furniture. "We get most of our dust mite exposure from our beds and bedrooms,Show More

cockroach on sink
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Allergen: Cockroaches and Droppings

Cockroaches are known for being good hiders, so you may experience symptoms without even knowing the critters are in your home. Reduce exposure to cockroach allergens by keeping your home clean and neat.

  • Store food in sealed containers and keep garbage can lids tightly closed.
  • Seal cracks and
  • Show More
winter holiday scene
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Other Cold-Weather Irritants

There's nothing cozier than a crackling fire on a chilly night. Unfortunately, smoke from wood-burning fireplaces and stoves may worsen allergy symptoms and trigger asthma attacks. Exposure can irritate your eyes, make your nose run and even lead to respiratory illness, like bronchitis.

FireplacesShow More

woman using nasal spray
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Your Treatment Options

If you've done all you can to avoid your allergy triggers and still can't get relief, talk to your healthcare provider (HCP) about medications.

Antihistamines, available over the counter or by prescription, are sold in capsules, liquids or nasal sprays. "Histamine is the primary chemical that'sShow More

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