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Preventing Seasonal Allergies and Sinus Issues During Dallas’s Winter Months
Dallas is a vibrant city, renowned for its warm weather year-round, making it a popular destination for those seeking to escape harsh, cold winters. However, the city's consistently mild climate can also pose a challenge for allergy sufferers, as it creates ideal conditions for allergens to thrive.
Texas Weather and Allergies
Texas is known to be one of the worst places for people with allergies. Due to the state’s temperate climate year-round, it has the ideal conditions for plants to grow anywhere almost throughout the entire year. This means an extended allergy season. When some states will be able to enjoy a quick break from allergies, Texas residents aren’t as lucky.
Texas has a fairly mild winter season. Vegetation and pollination can last well into the fall and winter months. This means it can be difficult for allergy sufferers to find relief and a short break even if the air gets colder than the rest of the year.
The unique vegetation climate of Texas also makes it the perfect home for a variety of plant species – all of which contribute to high levels of pollens and allergens.
Common Texas allergies include cedar, oak, juniper, and ash trees; ragweed; and Bermuda and Johnson grass. Mold spores are also common during the fall season when humidity levels are high and fallen leaves start to rot.
During the winter months, Texas residents can see a rise in indoor allergens as well as people tend to spend more time indoors to escape the cold air.
Prevent Seasonal Allergies and Stop Sinus Issues During Dallas Winter
Allergies in Texas can linger year-round, making it essential to stay prepared and prevent sinus issues from escalating. Here are some tips to keep you and your sinuses comfortable throughout the winter months:
- Monitor pollen counts
Pollen is a huge trigger for seasonal allergies. Monitor pollen levels as you plan your schedule for the day. It would be in your best interest to stay indoors and limit your time outside when pollen counts are especially high.
- Keep doors and windows closed
Pollen and other airborne allergens can easily travel through the wind for miles. Keep the doors and windows to your house and car closed. This prevents any allergens from breaking into your space and triggering allergies.
- Keep your home clean
The winter season means people tend to spend more time at home. Make sure to always keep your home clean. Regularly vacuum and dust your home to get rid of indoor allergens. Additionally, change and wash your bedding regularly.
- Use air purifiers and humidifiers
Air purifiers help remove pollen, dust, pet dander, and other allergens from the air inside your home. Humidifiers are also worth noting especially if the air feels drier due to the colder temperatures. Dry air can be irritating to the sinuses and increases the risk of sinus infections. Combat this by running an indoor humidifier.
- Invest in HEPA filters
HEPA filters can remove very tiny particles and contaminants from the air in your home. Consider using them for your home’s HVAC system, vacuum cleaners, and air purifiers for increased efficiency.
- Trim trees and mow the lawn
Keep tree branches, grass, and weeds around your home trimmed to reduce the amount of pollen and allergens they release.
- Wear protective clothing
When you have plans of going outdoors, make sure you wear enough protective clothing. Scarves, hats, glasses, etcetera are recommended to minimize your exposure to allergens.
- Carefully plan outdoor activities
If you can’t limit your time outdoors, at least carefully plan your outdoor activities. Avoid engaging in outdoor activities during peak hours. Pollen counts tend to be highest in the morning and afternoon. You might want to schedule outdoor activities during the evening instead.
- Immediately change out of your outdoor clothes
After going home, immediately change out of your outdoor clothes and get into the shower to remove any pollen and allergens that your skin might have picked up. If you can, get your outdoor clothes in the washer and wash them immediately.
- Allergy testing and allergy medication
If you haven't had an allergy test yet, it’s worth considering. Knowing your triggers allows your doctor to recommend personalized treatment options, medications, and management strategies to help keep your symptoms under control.
Our allergists at Dallas Breathe Free can help you learn more about your allergies as well as give you treatment options to finally achieve relief. Schedule a consultation with one of our team members today and let’s start talking about allergy relief!