Usually, we hear advertisements for allergy medications in the springtime.

While most people associate allergies with spring, did you know that it is possible to experience seasonal allergies throughout the year, including during winter?

Indoor Winter Allergies

Most people who find themselves experiencing allergies during winter are reacting to indoor allergens.

These might include mold, dust mites, droppings from insects, and/or dander from pets.

According to the Ashford Clinic Sinus & Snoring Specialists, “It's also worth noting that while wood smoke isn't an allergen, it can still affect you and trigger some of the same symptoms. With that in mind, it would be wise to limit the use of fireplaces if possible.”

Treating Indoor Winter Allergies

If you want to reduce winter allergies caused by indoor irritants, you need to control your indoor environment.

That means using a dehumidifier to fight mold and removing particles from the air with a HEPA filter vacuum.

Search for mold in your home and get rid of it, groom pets regularly, and remove insect infestations if you find them.

Outdoor Winter Allergies

It seems to be widely believed that plants only pollinate during spring and summer, but this is simply not the case.

Pollen.com explains, “Spring is not the only allergy season, many plants pollinate year round. Your location will determine the time and duration of your pollen season.”

According to the Achoo Allergy blog, “In certain parts of the country, particularly south Texas and other parts of the Southwest, December is the peak month for juniper (cedar) pollen.”

Healthline also mentions, “Some trees start releasing their pollen as early as January, while others continue their onslaught into summer.”

Think about that. The winter solstice is right near the end of December, so trees that start releasing in January are releasing through much of the winter season.

So, if you live in a region where juniper or other plants produce pollen in late autumn, early spring, or even during winter, you could find yourself coughing or sneezing in response to outdoor allergens.

Treating Outdoor Winter Allergies

The treatment for winter outdoor allergies is the same as it is for outdoor allergies during other seasons.

To cope with seasonal allergies, Mayo Clinic suggests that you avoid going outdoors on days which are particularly windy and dry. If you have been outside, take a shower and change your clothes. If necessary, you can wear a mask to reduce pollen exposure outdoors.

You can also take OTC medications or herbal supplements for allergies. Consider stinging nettle root, butterbur root, bromelain, and quercetin.

Find Relief By Treating Winter Allergies

Now you know the truth about winter allergies. It isn’t all in your head, and you aren’t just suffering an extremely long and inconsistent cold. It could well be that you are experiencing indoor and/or outdoor winter allergies.

Once you try taking an herbal supplement and other steps to get your winter allergies under control, hopefully you will soon starting feeling your best again.