When winter rolls around, cosy jumpers and hot drinks come out—but so do the sniffles and sneezes. If your home’s sounding more like a symphony of coughs, you’re not alone. The Family Guide to Winter Allergies is here to help you understand what’s triggering those symptoms and how to fight back. Whether it’s your toddler’s itchy eyes or your own dry sinuses, this guide is packed with practical, easy-to-follow solutions for the whole family.
With Summer coming to an end, allergies caused by grass and tree pollens are easing off. But a new season comes a new set of prevailing allergens. “Winter-related” allergies can be described in three ways:
- exposure to those allergens which are more prolific during the winter months leading to typical allergic rhinitis or asthma;
- worsening of allergies and asthma secondary to winter viruses;
- worsening of symptoms because of the cold air itself.
Allergens which are more prolific during the winter months
The bulk of allergens which have higher levels during winter are indoor allergens, including house dust mites, moulds, cockroaches and pet dander. The reason for increased exposure to such allergens during winter months is a reduction in indoor ventilation and an associated increase in indoor humidity levels, and a greater amount of time spent indoors in contact with such allergens.
1. Those with an allergy to pet dander can have symptoms all year round, but winter may be associated with more flare-ups than usual. Reduced ventilation in the home (fewer open windows and doors), as well as increased time spent by pets indoors during winter, may contribute.
Patients with a pet dander allergy should take the following steps during winter:
- Vacuum regularly using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter (high efficiency particulate air filter).
- Discourage dogs from sleeping in bedrooms and on couches.
- Dogs should be groomed and washed regularly, but not inside the house.
2. House dust mites are perennial allergens but exposure levels do tend to peak over winter, with reduced household ventilation and increased time spent indoors. Fluffy blankets, down duvets and thick coats which have been taken out of storage cupboards all trap house dust mites too, increasing the exposure even more during winter.
During winter, those suffering from a house dust mite allergy should take the following steps to reduce allergen exposure:
- Vacuum regularly using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.
- Reduce fluffy toys and blankets. Wash bedding and blankets at 60 degrees Celsius or higher, if possible. Air thick blankets and duvets outside on a sunny day. Fluffy toys and blankets can also be placed in the freezer overnight then washed at normal temperature to reduce dust mite carriage.
- Wet-mop floors instead of sweeping, especially in bedrooms.
- Consider the use of house dust mite impermeable mattress covers, pillow covers and duvet encasings.
3. Mould thrives in warm, damp regions and is prolific in coastal areas, both inside the house and outside in the garden. Like dust mites, it is a perennial allergen, but with reduced household ventilation during winter, excess mould can grow in bathrooms, kitchens and cupboards during winter months.
Some tips for reducing mould allergen levels in the house during winter include:
- Ventilate the house daily, even if the air is a little cold.
- Limit indoor plants and firewood as they can encourage mould proliferation.
- As much as possible, avoid hanging wet washing inside the house.
4. Cockroaches
Cockroach droppings can cause allergic symptoms and levels may increase during winter. Inhalation of cockroach droppings can worsen allergic rhinitis and asthma. Cockroach levels can be reduced by keeping food well contained and cleaning up crumbs diligently. Fixing leaky pipes and sealing cracks in the home can also help.
5. Worsening of allergies due to winter viruses
Cold and flu viruses, which are prolific during winter, can mimic allergic symptoms and simultaneously exacerbate rhinitis and chest symptoms. Pre-existing allergies can, in turn, also lead to prolongation of cold and flu symptoms. Frequent use of nasal saline rinses and diligent use of allergic rhinitis and asthma control treatment such as intranasal/inhaled corticosteroids can lessen the impact of viral illnesses.
7. Worsening of allergic symptoms because of cold air
Cold-induced airway irritation or damage can cause rhinorrhea or bronchospasm. This is worsened by rapid decreases in temperature and particularly manifests during exercise in cold weather, when the normal compensatory nasal humidification is bypassed during exercise-induced hyperventilation.
8. Other factors
Further factors such as an increase in the use of indoor fires, higher pollution production and increased use of air-drying indoor heaters can all worsen respiratory allergies.
Winter carries several risk factors for an exacerbation in respiratory allergies. Patients and healthcare providers should ensure that allergic rhinitis and asthma medication plans are up to date and being adhered to, and that indoor allergen exposure is reduced as much as possible during winter time. Additional measures such as frequent use of saline sprays may be helpful in counteracting the drying effects of indoor heaters, and also in reducing the impact of upper respiratory viruses
References available on request.
FAQs: The Family Guide to Winter Allergies
Can you get allergies in winter?
Yes. While pollen levels drop in winter, indoor allergens such as dust mites, mould, and pet dander can trigger allergy symptoms when homes are closed up and less ventilated.
What are common winter allergy symptoms?
Symptoms may include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy or watery eyes, coughing, and worsening of asthma or eczema. These symptoms are often mistaken for a cold.
How can I tell if it’s a cold or a winter allergy?
Colds usually last 7–10 days and may come with a fever or body aches. Allergies tend to linger longer and don’t cause fever. Persistent sneezing and itchiness are more typical of allergies.
What are the main causes of winter allergies?
Indoor allergens are the primary culprits. These include dust mites in bedding and carpets, mould in damp areas, pet dander, and occasionally indoor plants or smoke.
How can I reduce indoor allergens in winter?
Regularly vacuum with a HEPA filter, wash bedding weekly in hot water, reduce indoor humidity, use air purifiers, and keep pets out of bedrooms or off furniture if needed.
Are children more sensitive to winter allergens?
Yes, children can be particularly sensitive. Their immune systems are still developing, and they spend more time indoors during winter, increasing exposure to triggers.
Can mould really cause winter allergies?
Yes. Mould thrives in damp areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and around windows. Inhaling mould spores can cause allergic reactions and worsen respiratory issues.
Is heating in the home linked to winter allergies?
Yes. Central heating can dry out the air and irritate airways. It can also stir up dust and allergens. Using a humidifier and keeping filters clean can help. Take a look at Electric vs. gas heaters: cost and safety comparison.
How can I treat winter allergy symptoms?
Over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, and decongestants may help. Always speak to your pharmacist or GP before giving any medication to children.
Are winter allergies linked to asthma flare-ups?
Yes. Exposure to indoor allergens can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms. It’s important to manage allergies and follow your child’s asthma action plan if they have one.
Can I prevent winter allergies entirely?
You may not be able to prevent them completely, but reducing exposure to triggers, maintaining a clean and well-ventilated home, and managing symptoms early can make a big difference.
When should I see a doctor about winter allergies?
If symptoms are persistent, affect sleep, or interfere with daily life, it’s best to consult a GP. Allergy testing or specialist treatment may be recommended.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for general information only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your GP or healthcare provider for personalised guidance on managing allergies.
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