Many people mistakenly believe allergies are only a spring or fall issue. While seasonal allergies are common, allergic reactions can persist throughout the entire year, even in December. Individuals can experience symptoms regardless of the month, challenging the idea that cold weather eliminates all allergen exposure. Understanding that allergies are not strictly confined to specific seasons is an important first step in managing symptoms effectively.
Year-Round Allergy Potential
Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to harmless substances, called allergens, by producing antibodies that release chemicals like histamine. This immune response can happen whenever a susceptible person is exposed to an allergen, not just at specific times of the year. While seasonal allergies, often triggered by outdoor pollens, are common in warmer months, perennial allergies cause symptoms year-round. These are frequently caused by indoor allergens, which remain present regardless of outdoor temperature or season.
Indoor Allergy Triggers
Indoor environments become primary sources of allergens in colder months as people spend more time indoors with windows closed. Several common indoor triggers exist.
Dust mites, thriving in warm, humid conditions, are significant indoor triggers. Their droppings and remains become airborne from mattresses, bedding, carpets.
Pet dander, from animals with fur or feathers, can embed in furniture and fabrics, causing year-round reactions. Indoor molds, proliferating in damp areas like bathrooms and basements, release airborne spores that trigger allergic responses.
Cockroach droppings and shed body parts contribute to indoor allergen loads, especially in humid environments. Holiday-specific triggers include mold on real Christmas trees and accumulated dust on decorations. Both can release allergens when brought into the home.
Outdoor Factors and Other Considerations
Outdoor pollen counts are generally low in December across many regions, but exceptions exist. In warmer climates, some plants may not go dormant, allowing continued pollen release. For example, the Ashe Juniper tree can cause “cedar fever” in the Southwestern United States during winter. Outdoor mold spores, though less active in cold weather, can still cause allergies in warmer, humid areas.
Beyond specific allergens, winter conditions introduce other factors that can exacerbate or mimic allergy symptoms. Dry indoor air from heating systems can irritate nasal passages and skin, leading to discomfort that may feel like allergy symptoms. Heating systems can also circulate settled dust and other particles, increasing exposure to indoor allergens.
Distinguishing and Managing Symptoms
Differentiating allergy symptoms from a common cold or flu, prevalent in December, is important. Allergy symptoms like itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, and a runny or stuffy nose persist with allergen exposure. Colds resolve within 7 to 10 days and may include body aches or fever.
Environmental control measures are effective for managing December allergies. Special protective casings on bedding reduce dust mite exposure. Washing clothes, bedding, and upholstery covers in hot water eliminates dander and dust mites.
Maintaining indoor humidity between 30% and 50% with a dehumidifier inhibits dust mite and mold growth. Regular vacuuming with a HEPA-filtered vacuum and cleaning furnace filters reduces airborne allergens. For symptom relief, over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal rinses alleviate nasal congestion, sneezing, and irritation.