You might think that going off to college in the fall means leaving your summer allergies behind, but that’s not always the case. Winter can be just as tough as spring and summer for people with allergies. Instead of heading straight to the student health center, try tackling your winter allergies naturally:
1. **Clean Thoroughly and Often**
Nothing fights off winter allergies better than a good, thorough cleaning of your living space. Instead of just dusting, use antibacterial wipes to clean your dorm room. These wipes not only kill bacteria but also trap more dust compared to regular dusters. Be sure to wipe down everything: light fixtures, tabletops, chair legs, and any other surfaces.
2. **Air Filter**
If your winter allergies are driving you crazy, consider asking for a HEPA air filter as a holiday gift. Running a HEPA filter in your room can capture dust and allergens from the air, making it cleaner to breathe. You might also want to look into houseplants that are known for their air-purifying qualities—a couple of those could really help out too.
3. **Neti Pot**
Using a neti pot can feel a bit strange at first and might leave you wet, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a fantastic tool for fighting winter allergies. Rinse your nasal cavities in the morning and again in the evening after spending time outside. This helps remove dust, dander, and other allergens from your nose lining.
4. **Natural Antihistamines**
You don’t need to rely on Benadryl for antihistamine relief. Natural options like butterbur and stinging nettle work well too. These herbs are available at most health food stores and are great for easing allergy symptoms. Studies suggest that taking about 300 mg of stinging nettle or 32 mg of butterbur can relieve symptoms, but if you have a ragweed allergy, avoid butterbur as they are related plants.
5. **Control Humidity**
Allergies often worsen in humid environments because bacteria thrive in warm, moist conditions. Try to keep your dorm room’s humidity levels low. Also, consider using heating and cooling systems that don’t blow air around, as these can stir up dust and worsen your allergies.
Don’t assume your allergy woes are over just because it’s colder outside. Winter allergies can be just as troublesome. Identifying your exact triggers is always best, but in the meantime, these natural remedies might provide some relief.