Winter Allergies: 7 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore During the Cold Months

As temperatures drop, people tend to spend more time indoors, and they also begin to notice persistent sneezing, congestion, or itching that doesn’t seem to go away. These problems are often associated with common colds. However, experts warn that it might be winter allergies. Unlike viral infections, winter allergies tend to linger and can quietly affect daily comfort, sleep, and overall well-being.

So, to know better, we reached out to our expert, Dr Brunda M S, Senior Consultant - Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, and she explained to us that winter allergy is more prevalent than one thinks. In most cases, the allergens are indoors, not outdoors. “Symptoms of winter allergy appear with signs similar to a cold. However, the symptoms last longer. A runny or stuffed nose, sneezing, and itchy or watery eyes are some of the manifestations,” she shared.

Symptoms of Winter Allergies

According to experts, here are seven hidden signs of winter allergies you shouldn’t ignore:

1. Runny or Congested Nose

One of the first symptoms of winter allergies is a runny and congested nose. Since a cold is only temporary and typically clears up in a week, if the congestion is being caused by allergies, then it could persist for several months. Another symptom of winter allergies is relieving sneezing fits in the morning and after housecleaning.

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2. Eye Infections

Itchy, watery, or irritated eyes are another symptom. Cold doesn’t directly irritate the eyes, but allergens such as dust mites, mould spores, or pet dander could easily trigger eye irritation with shut windows in the winter months.

3. Sore Throat and Cough

“Many people feel a tickle in their throat, either dry or sore, especially in the morning. This occurs especially because of postnasal drip accompanied by dry air caused by heaters. Also, a sore cough, especially at night, may be associated with winter allergies rather than an infection,” Dr Brunda added.

4. Skin Allergies

Skin symptoms may also be another treatment that is overlooked. In winter, there may be dry and itchy skin or rashes that may flare up, particularly in people who are sensitive and who may already be dealing with eczema. The dry air from the cold and even potential allergens may dry skin.

5. Headaches and Sinus

In addition, winter allergies may cause headaches and facial pressure. This may be due to blocked sinuses resulting in heavy sensations around and above the eyes or cheeks, which may have adverse effects on concentration and mood eventually.

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6. Tiredness

Another important symptom of allergy will be tiredness. Allergies can cause disturbances during sleep if the person has a congested nose, coughs, or a sore throat despite sleeping well.

7. Wheezing and Shortness of Breath

In people with asthma, winter allergy can cause wheezing and shortness of breath. When indoor allergens are inhaled with cold air, breathing becomes difficult.

Why Symptoms  of Winter Allergies Get Worse Indoors

While rainy and summer allergies are outdoors, winter allergies are primarily caused by indoor factors. “Dust mites in bedding, moist corners for mould growth, and pet hairs due to reduced airflow in homes during winter months are the chief causes of winter allergies,” highlighted Dr Brunda. According to her, if the symptoms persist but there’s no fever, it might be a winter allergy instead of a cold.

Bottomline

If the symptoms of a cold persist without the fever and become aggravated inside, then it could be a case of winter allergy. Experts recommend that if you have been experiencing symptoms for more than 10 days and continue to appear intermittently or cause disruptions with sleep and usual activity performance, the best thing would be to seek the advice of a doctor.