Here are some nice tips about avoiding allergies during the holidays. Of course, by now, some of us have learned the hard way, right?

• Rule No.1 – Avoid artificial “snow sprays” that can aggravate your sinuses, and eyes, and can cause annoying respiratory symptoms including cough.
• Rule No.2 – Watch out for those lovely faux holiday “poinsettias” if you have skin allergies, especially if you have a sensitivity to rubber, it may cause an itchy rash.
• Rule No.3 – Don’t bring in wood for the fireplace until needed, it may bring mildew and molds into your home, especially when not completely dry or damp.
• Rule No.4 – Watch out for those pesky mold spores if you have a natural, fresh Christmas tree in your home, especially if you have indoor allergies!
• Rule No.5 – If you humidify your home, measure the indoor humidity level with a low-cost hygrometer, and keep the level of humidity at 50 percent or less.
• Rule No.6 – It may be best to avoid wood-burning stoves or direct exposure to a poorly ventilated home fireplace, especially if you have asthma or respiratory problems.
• Rule No.7 – Stay away from scented candles and potpourri, incense, and room fragrance devices that can irritate your eyes and nose as well as your breathing.
• Rule No.8 – Wash all non-porous holiday decorations, with warm soapy water to clean off dust and mildew, before placing them on your tree and other areas of the home.
• Rule No.9 – A HEPA air cleaner (both a portable room unit and/or central heating/ventilation system can help to reduce indoor allergens and pollutants.)
• Rule No.10 – When taking down your holiday decorations, keep them “off-season” in enclosed containers. This will reduce dust and mildew from accumulating – and avoid sniffles when opened next year.

© Copyright WLL, INC. 2022. This blog provides healthcare tips and advice that you can trust about a wide variety of general health information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your regular physician. If you are concerned about your health, take what you learn from this blog and meet with your personal doctor to discuss your concerns.