Allergy Season is Over--So Why Are You Sneezing?

Just when you think it’s safe to take a breath, hold that thought because winter allergies are about to kick in. Once you turn on the furnace, you start stirring up a whole lot of allergens like mold, pollen, and dust mites—which trigger sneezing, stuffy noses, and irritated eyes. But it’s not just turning on your furnace that can spark the winter sniffles. Dust mites are major indoor allergens, too—and they love to sleep in your bed! So keep your allergy meds handy and try these timely tips:

·       Wash your bedding once a week with a natural citrus laundry detergent in hot water, and dry it on the highest heat on your dryer.

·       Minimize the amount of dust that comes from your mattress and pillows by covering them with plastic. Most bedding stores carry zippered, allergy-proof mattress and pillow covers in a variety of sizes.

·       If you can, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter which removes more dust particles from the air.

·       Always dust with a damp cloth. Dry dusters don't pick up the dust, but just move it from place to place.

·       Cover your mouth and nose with a mask whenever you dust or vacuum. Pick up a packet of disposable dust masks at your local drugstore.

·       Replace your furnace filter every two to three months. High-efficiency filters are best—they catch up to 30 times more allergens than the standard fiberglass filters.