Winter allergies are a common health issue that affect the ears, nose, and throat. They are different from spring and summer allergies which are triggered Mostly by allergens like pollen. Winter allergies can be caused by indoor allergens, which include dust mites, fungus. Environmental factors like cold air also play a role. Like all allergies, these too lead to significant patient discomfort resulting in exacerbation of ENT issues like sinusitis, ear infections.
Winter allergies commonly cause symptoms resembling common cold, however they tend to persist much longer. Patient often complains of blocked nose and runny nose. Another common issue is persistent Sneezing along with itchy nose. Many patients often complain of Post-nasal drip. This leads to throat irritation. Blocked secretions can lead to feeling of increased sinus pressure and headaches. Itchy or watery eyes due to allergies can also be there. Persistent sore throat in patients without any symptoms of infection can also indicate allergic causes.
Dr. Eshaan Kaushik, ENT Surgeon in Zirakpur says causes of winter allergies are distinct from allergies in other seasons. He says in winters, causes like Dust mites become important. Such dust mites thrive in clothes, bedding, carpets, furniture etc. Winters are a season when growth of Molds peak. These are often found in damp areas like bathrooms and basements. These mold are another common causes of winter allergies.
In winters, Cold and dry air irritates the nasal passages and throat. This worsens the allergy symptoms. Moreover Heaters and closed rooms in winter’s further Circulate dust, mites and molds etc, further exacerbating symptoms.
Allergies are not simple allergic episodes in winters. Many ENT Complications can result due to it. Chronic sinusitis or inflamed sinuses can occur due to prolonged nasal congestion. Fluid buildup due to allergies can cause Middle ear infections. Persistent nasal inflammation due to allergies can lead to discomfort and breathing difficulties. Winter allergies leading to Post-nasal drip and throat irritation can lead to hoarseness of voice.
Dr. Eshaan Kaushik says a complete ENT examination and evaluation is important to distinguish winter allergies from other similar conditions like viral infections and anatomical causes.
To achieve this, a thorough Medical history and review of symptoms should be done.
Skin allergy test or blood tests may be done to identify causative allergens. Dr. Eshaan’s ENT Clinic in Zirakpur is equipped for allergy testing. Sometimes, ENT Surgeons might do Nasal endoscopy for assessing sinuses and anatomy of nasal passages.
For treatment of winter allergies, management of Allergy symptoms by drugs like antihistamines or decongestants are needed. Antihistamines help by reducing symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itching etc. Decongestants help in relieving nasal congestion. Care should be taken before using these over the counter drugs for long time. Severe cases might need Nasal corticosteroid sprays for decrease in severe symptoms. Dr. Kaushik personally recommends regular Saline nasal irrigation, which is usually ignored by patients. This simple step helps to not only flush out the causative allergens but also relieves nasal dryness.
If you suffer from nasal allergies and would want a proper management of the condition, call Dr. Eshaan Kaushik today, to book an appointment at his Mohali ENT Clinic. He is Best ENT Doctor in Zirakpur.
Dr. Eshaan Kaushik (PGI Chandigarh) Best ENT Surgeon, ENT Doctor and Allergy specialist in Zirakpur
Address: SCO 3, First Floor, Prime Square, Ambala – Chandigarh Rd, opposite Cosmo Mall, Zirakpur, Chandigarh, Punjab 140603
Email: Eshaan19_kaushik@yahoo.com
