Indoor allergies common in winter

    年节到来,室内活动的增加给过敏人群带来烦恼。对此,专家给出了如下妙招。

    Colder temperatures can bring some relief to those allergic to mold and pollen, but spending more time indoors can mean more problems with other allergens. David J. Resnick, director of allergy and immunology at New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, offers these tips for minimizing the chances of an allergic reaction or asthma flare-up during the holidays.

    ▲Mold and dust mites thrive in humidity, so keep indoor humidity below 35 percent.

    ▲Turn on exhaust fans when showering and cooking to remove excess humidity and cut down on odors.

    ▲Clean thoroughly to reduce dust mites. Don’t keep old books, stuffed animals and knickknacks, which are also places where mites collect.

    ▲Go with hardwood or tile floors in bedrooms instead of carpets. Try to wash bed linens and nightclothes in water above 130 degrees.

    ▲Frost kills most mold outdoors. Even so, keep children from playing in areas that mold prefers, such as dark, damp wooded areas and piles of fallen leaves. When using a humidifier, maintain it properly. Keep it clean and change the water frequently to avoid mold and bacteria growth.

    ▲People who have dog and cat allergies should avoid being in households with pets. Keep pets out of the bedroom.