For some people with seasonal allergies, winter is a much-needed break from their hay fever symptoms. Yet for many others, the winter months are a time for nasal congestion, coughing, sneezing and a sore throat. Wintertime allergies are actually more common than many people think, and adults and children in Atlanta feel the unfortunate effects. But are the symptoms a sign of hay fever, or could something else be to blame?
Is Hay Fever the Cause of My Winter Allergies?
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is a reaction to allergens in the air. After breathing in an allergen, the immune system releases histamine to protect the body from a perceived threat. The resulting hay fever symptoms are those we’re all familiar with, like nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing, plus a runny nose and sore throat from postnasal drip.
Hay fever is sometimes used to describe seasonal allergies caused by various types of pollen. However, allergic rhinitis can also include many year-round allergens that are particularly prevalent in winter. These allergens do include pet dander and dust mites. And with colder temperatures increasing the time spent at home, there’s certainly a greater chance of exposure.
Main Differences Between Hay Fever and a Cold
The similarity between hay fever and the common cold is one of the most confusing parts of identifying a winter allergy. Faced with a runny or blocked nose, headache, cough and sneezing, it can be difficult to determine the exact trigger for the symptoms. In addition, sinus headaches are common in the winter, and sinusitis can also have different causes.
A cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract and does differ from hay fever in some respects. For example, if you have watery, itchy eyes and an itchy throat, the cause is more likely to be allergic rhinitis. Also, a cold often results in yellow or green mucus discharge, unlike the more clear mucus of an allergy. Note that a cold will usually clear up within a week, whereas allergies often persist – unless you seek treatment from your allergist.
Main Allergens Causing Winter Allergies
Various allergens are responsible for winter allergies. Understanding the main types of allergies in Atlanta during winter can be the start of treating the issue.
- Pollen – Pollen from ragweed and box elder trees is particularly prominent in the Atlanta area during winter.
- Dust Mites – Dust mites are often found in blankets, carpets and furniture.
- Pet Dander – Exposure to tiny flakes of skin from your pets may cause allergic reactions.
- Cockroaches – Cockroach droppings may cause allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
Dependable Winter Allergy Treatments in the Atlanta Area
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center provides treatment for hay fever, food allergies and sinusitis from locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. If you or your child are dealing with the main types of allergies (or any allergic responses), reach out to us today. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment.
