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From sneezing indoors to feeling short of breath outdoors, sometimes it seems like there’s no escape from the misery. But are these symptoms a result of pollution or winter chill?
Pollution or winter chill: Pinpointing the source is the first step to effective relief
Winter can be a challenging time for the respiratory sensitive. From sneezing indoors to feeling short of breath outdoors, sometimes it seems like there’s no escape from the misery. But are your symptoms caused by winter allergies or pollution? Pinpointing the source is the first step to effective relief. Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Critical Care and Pulmonology – CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram shares all you need to know
The Indoor Culprit: Winter Allergies
Cold weather equates to more time spent indoors, where allergens thrive. Dust mites love heated spaces, and pet dander is inevitable when cuddling with your furry friends. Mold spores are another common irritant, especially in bathrooms. Winter also limits ventilation, keeping these irritants inside and magnifying their effects.
The Outdoor Agitator: Pollution
Winter weather worsens the levels of pollution. Vehicle emissions and heating systems that burn wood or coal release particles into the air. A phenomenon called temperature inversion traps pollutants close to the ground, creating smog that lingers in urban areas. The result? Irritation that hits hardest when you step outside or spend time near busy roads.
Breaking It Down: How to Tell the Difference
Environment: The causes are allergies if symptoms aggravate indoors and are aggravated by pollution if the same is outdoors.
Duration: Symptoms of allergy will stay, but symptoms caused due to pollution tend to lessen as you move towards better air.
Relief: For allergy, over-the-counter antihistamines could provide relief, but over-the-counter remedies cannot tackle pollution.
Taking Action
Clean your home often to reduce allergens and invest in an air purifier. Check on air quality reports and reduce outdoor activities when the air is poor. If your symptoms worsen or don’t go away, then consult a health care provider. It might be able to make winter bearable.
