Sneezing in a Winter Wonderland

Don’t let this be the winter of your discontent because you’re suffering from allergies. Even though everything has frozen over, humidity is at an all-time low, and the pollen count is pretty-much non-existent, there are still allergens floating around that can make you miserable.

In fact, many of the things that can trigger allergies in the wintertime are the same as the culprits that attack during the other seasons:

  • Mold: Even when it’s cold outside, there can still be dampness in your house, which in turn can host mold. Bathrooms and basements are typical growth areas, but you may also find mold in places that aren’t properly insulated or in the pile of fireplace wood that you just brought in from outside.
  • Dust mites: With forced-air furnaces and lack of ventilation, not to mention children who spend more time inside than out, the airborne dust can really pile up. The same goes for pet dander.

In addition, the symptoms of winter allergies are the same as in any other season:

  • Runny nose and nasal congestion
  • Watery or itchy eyes
  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Itchy nose, roof of mouth or throat
  • Sinus pressure and facial pain
  • Circles under the eyes
  • Decreased sense of smell or taste

The difference is that in the winter, not only are you faced with these ailments, but also freezing cold temperatures, a weakened immune system and viruses that spread like wildfire. Suffering through winter allergies can really make you want to crawl into bed and hibernate.

Unfortunately for most of us, hibernation is not an option. Luckily, there are some things you can do to minimize the impact of winter allergens, including cleaning regularly and using a dehumidifier in problem areas. You can also try over-the-counter or prescription medications to alleviate your symptoms. However, if you are looking for a more permanent solution, especially if you suffer year-round, schedule a consultation at CT Sinus Center to see how we can help.

When you come in to CT Sinus Center, one of our expert physicians will sit down with you to thoroughly discuss your symptoms and diagnostic processes. We offer specific skin testing to evaluate for environmental allergies, including fungi. Once we diagnose specifically what is triggering your allergies, we’ll work to develop an individualized and effective treatment plan.

You may be eligible for balloon sinus dilation, a non-invasive, outpatient procedure that opens up the nasal passages, allowing more airflow and drainage, which in turn prevents future sinus issues. When you undergo balloon sinus dilation, in just under an hour, you will be on your way to long-lasting allergy relief. After all, don’t you deserve a break from the discomfort allergies bring during any season?

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Thursday 7:30-4:00
Friday 8:00-1:00
Fax (203) 574-5987
60 Westwood Ave., Suite 104
Waterbury, CT 06708
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