Southern California enjoys a sunny climate all year round. Even as the winter season approaches and starts knocking on people’s doors, Southern Californians get to enjoy mild winters. This means instead of heavy padded jackets, most people can get away with light and comfortable sweaters to fight off the cold.
The unique climates of Southern California also mean people experience and deal with allergies differently here than in other parts of the country who get to experience wetter climates throughout the year.
What Is Allergy Season Like in Southern California? What are the Top Allergy Triggers in Southern California?
Allergies can be a nuisance throughout the year. Southern California typically has mild winters and dry summers, so residents don’t enjoy the “winter break” most allergists from other parts of the country get to enjoy.
Depending on your area, allergens vary per season but here’s a general overview of prevalent allergens during each season in Southern California:
- Spring (March to May): The spring season in Southern California welcomes common tree allergens, such as pollen released by mulberry, ash, oak, olive, walnut, eucalyptus, and sycamore trees.
- Summer (June to August): Common allergens during the summer season in Southern California come mostly from bluegrass, ryegrass, bermuda grass, and oat grass.
- Fall (September to November): Southern California sees a rise in ragweed and sagebrush during the fall season.
- Winter (December to February): When people are mostly driven indoors to avoid the cooler temperatures of the winter, indoor allergens are more common. This includes dust mites, mold, pet dander, and cockroaches.
Winter Allergies in Southern California
Winter allergies in Southern California will vary from one allergy sufferer to another. But as people spend more time inside their homes to escape the cold outdoors, indoor allergens are more common during the winter season.
Some common indoor allergens you should watch out for include:
- Dust
- Dust mites
- Mold
- Pet dander
- Cockroaches
During winter, homes are more likely closed. Many homeowners aim to make their homes tight, better insulated, and with fewer drafts during the winter season. While this is beneficial in terms of energy savings, it also means that people are often stuck inside their homes with a variety of allergens. Without enough fresh air circulating in your home, this can worsen allergy symptoms. The dry air of the cold winter season can also further exacerbate the symptoms.
Managing and Relieving Allergies in Winter
If you have allergies and don’t want to spend the rest of the winter season, here are some practical tips on managing and relieving your allergy symptoms as you spend more of your days indoors:
1. Keep home and surroundings clean
Dust, wipe with a wet cloth, and vacuum your home regularly. This will get rid of any pollen, dust, dirt, and pet dander that is currently sitting inside your home and waiting to attack your allergies. This is a great preventive measure to keep your allergies in check.
Wear a mask when cleaning and vacuuming so you don’t inhale any of the particles and allergens you’re trying to get rid of.
2. Wash your bedding often
Small particles of dust, dirt, and pet dander can sneakily make their way into your bedding, especially when you spend most of your time bundled under your sheets. This can exacerbate allergy symptoms during winter and make it difficult to sleep and rest. Wash your bedding regularly to get rid of any allergens and harmful particles stuck on them.
3. Use HEPA filters
Use high-quality HEPA filters to ensure that the air inside your home is clean and free from common allergens. Additionally, make sure you clean, wash, or change them regularly to maintain optimal performance.
4. Practice frequent handwashing
Practice the habit of regularly washing your hands, even at home. This will get rid of any potentially harmful particles from getting into your body.
5. Invest in a humidifier
The colder winter air is dry and can exacerbate winter allergy symptoms. Investing in a humidifier can help counter this. A humidifier will bring just enough moisture into the air circulating in your home so that it doesn’t feel too dry and won’t irritate your sinuses.
6. Reduce dust-catching fabric and furniture during winter
Get rid of any dust-catching fabric and furniture as winter starts to roll in and you begin to spend more time at home than you do outdoors. This will prevent fine allergen particles from causing allergic reactions.
7. Groom and bathe pets often
Pet dander is a common winter allergen as pets and homeowners alike spend most of their time indoors. Lessen the spread of this allergen by grooming and bathing your pets often to keep them and your home clean.
8. Keep pets out of the bedroom
If you’re especially concerned about pet dander and its impact on your allergies, it would be best to keep your pets out of the bedroom. With this, at least, you can sleep comfortably and allow your body to recuperate.
9. Take your allergy medication
If all else fails, your best bet to manage allergy symptoms is to take your allergy medication. Antihistamines can help block the body’s histamine-producing response to allergens and triggers. Corticosteroid nasal sprays can also be beneficial in reducing the inflammation and swelling of the nasal passages.
Watch Out for Allergies, Del Rey MD Can Help!
There are plenty of ways to manage your allergy symptoms as winter officially rolls in and the holiday spirit comes knocking at your door.
In Southern California, cooler weather and the holiday season mean many people retreat indoors to stay cozy and celebrate with loved ones. However, spending more time inside can lead to increased exposure to indoor allergens. Dust mites, mold, pet dander, and even cockroach allergens are common culprits in this region. Ensuring your home is clean, well-ventilated, and free of clutter can significantly reduce allergen levels.
If over-the-counter allergy medications no longer seem effective or symptoms persist, it may be time to consult with a physician or allergist for tailored solutions. Don’t let indoor allergens keep you from enjoying the season!
Let our experts at Del Rey MD help you manage your allergy symptoms no matter the season and book an appointment today!