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Many people are allergic to normally harmless substance such as pollen, dust mites, molds, etc. Winter strikes with diseases and one of them is allergy. Winter may be an awful season for people who are allergic or asthmatic. As people remain packed during winters in their houses to prevent cold, molds and dust mites population increases within the house due to the humidity. Growth of the allergens inside your house presents many health problems. However it`s hard to determine whether a person has allergy or cold as the symptoms are quite similar. Only the period by which the symptoms last help to diagnose the disease.

Allergy is not short-termed such as cold and it generally lasts for few weeks and one may develop symptoms such as sneezing, running nose, watery eyes, cough, fever, etc. People with asthma may suffer from breathing problems too. Hay, dust, fog, pollen grains, all give rise to allergy during winters. As humidity level is quite low during winters inside the home due to the lack of fresh air, there has been an exponential increase in the number of factors that result in allergy such as dust mites, mold, etc. There has been a significant increase in the number of patients who suffer from allergic conditions during winters.

Pets dander such as of cats and dogs also increases the risk of allergy or asthmatic conditions during winters. Asthmatic people who have pets may suffer from serious illness as they may feel chest congestion and shortness of breath. Winters make the conditions worse for the people suffering from asthma. Smoking makes the situation complex for allergic and asthmatic patients in the winter season. People should avoid smoking as much as possible during this season as this habit may pose serious health risks.

Prevention is the key to keep yourself away from winter allergies. One must prevent exposure to all forms of allergens that may lead to allergy such as dust, molds, animal dander, etc and all this can be achieved with proper cleaning and maintaining the right humidity level. One should clean all sources of dust such as carpets, door-mats, curtains, etc regularly in a gentle detergent. Open door and windows for a limited time such as during the morning time to let sunlight and fresh air come in. Keep pets outside the living area so that you didn`t expose to animal dander and make them to bath every week. Avoid smoking as much as possible. Sit outside in mild sunlight to make yourself feel comfortable during the daytime for short periods.

In case, you develop a serious allergy consult a physician immediately. Doctors may prescribe you anti-allergic drugs or nasal drops to provide instant relief. Asthmatic patients who suffer from breathing problems may be advised for inhalers or short hospital stays to improve the condition.