What Winter Allergies Can Affect Wilmington Homeowners?

Those who suffer from allergies often look to winter for relief. Unfortunately, winter can signal the start of additional allergic reactions, as we’re often cooped up in an airtight homes during the long heating season. Typically, residents of New Jersey suffer from winter allergies to mold and holiday trees, rather than pollen exposure.

Symptoms that mimic allergic reactions may also occur due to vasomotor rhinitis and cold urticaria. The former involves runny noses, congestion and post-nasal drip. It’s non-allergic, but can be caused by temperature changes, smoke, perfume, strong odors, wind and changes in humidity.

Urticaria is a form of hives or swelling that results from exposure to cold weather, cold food or drinks or even swimming in cold water. Minimize Exposure to Allergens The best thing you can do during the winter to protect your family from allergens is to minimize exposure. Follow these tips to keep winter allergens at bay:

• Wash your holiday tree with a garden hose before you bring it indoors.
• Clean dusty holiday decorations before putting them up.
• Try to prevent moisture from collecting in the shower and other problem areas by fixing roofs, foundations or leaking pipes. Dehumidifiers and exhaust ventilation can help prevent moisture from accumulating.
• Have your symptoms diagnosed by a physician, so you can be sure of whether they’re caused by allergies or by rhinitis or urticaria.
• Vacuum carpets and upholstered surfaces frequently with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter.
• Wash linens in hot water to get rid of dust mites.
• Use a higher MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) filter to trap pollutants.
• Use a damp mop to clean floors.

At Sobieski Services, Inc., our goal is to help our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey learn more about energy and home comfort issues – especially HVAC and plumbing issues – so that they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.

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