When temperatures drop and families close the windows, allergy season may seem like it should finally be over. But for some children, winter brings a fresh round of sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes and coughing.

The reason is simple: winter often means more time indoors, where allergens such as dust mites, pet dander and mold can linger year-round. Heated homes and closed windows can increase the amount of time children spend around those triggers, making symptoms seem worse even though outdoor pollen levels have dropped.

“It is important to distinguish between ‘seasonal allergies’ which affect us during specific allergy seasons and ‘perennial allergies’, which affect us year-round.”  says Dr. Shelly Senders of Senders Pediatrics in South Euclid.

Cold or allergies?
One of the biggest challenges for parents is figuring out whether a child has perennial allergies or yet another winter cold.

Both can cause congestion, a runny nose and coughing. Allergies, however, are more likely to cause repeated sneezing, itchy or watery eyes and an itchy nose or throat. A fever, body aches and feeling “sick” point more toward a viral infection.

“One of the biggest clues that you’re dealing with perennial allergies rather than a cold is an itchy nose and itchy eyes,” Dr. Senders says. “Perennial allergies are caused by histamine release which is what causes the itchiness.” 

Duration can also offer a clue. Most colds improve within several days and resolve within about two weeks. Perennial allergy symptoms typically come and go all year. 

Look inside the house
Dust mites, which are microscopic bugs that feed on dust, are among the most common indoor allergens and are especially prevalent in bedding, carpeting and upholstered furniture. Pet allergens can also become more troublesome during winter simply because pets and family members are spending more time together indoors.

Mold is another potential trigger, particularly in damp basements, bathrooms, around windows or anywhere moisture collects. Indoor allergens can contribute not only to nasal symptoms but also to asthma flare-ups in children who are sensitive to them.

Cold air itself is not an allergy, although breathing cold, dry air can irritate the nose and airways and may trigger coughing or asthma symptoms in some children. That can make figuring out the cause even more confusing.

Small changes can help
Doing a little sleuthing is helpful when suspecting perennial allergies.  Start by paying attention to patterns. Are symptoms worse after a child wakes up? After playing with a pet? In one particular room?

For children with dust and dust-mite allergies, washing bedding regularly and using allergen-resistant mattress and pillow covers may help reduce exposure. Vacuuming with a HEPA-filter vacuum, keeping excessive humidity under control and addressing visible mold can also make a difference.

Pet allergies can be more complicated. Keeping animals out of a child’s bedroom may reduce exposure, although pet allergens can spread throughout a home and remain on furniture and clothing.

When to call your pediatrician 
Parents should talk with their child’s pediatrician when symptoms are persistent, interfere with sleep or school, repeatedly return, or are difficult to control with simple measures.

Children who develop wheezing, shortness of breath or frequent nighttime coughing also deserve attention, particularly if they have asthma or a history of respiratory problems.

If congestion or coughing lasts for weeks, keeps returning, interferes with sleep or is accompanied by wheezing, that’s a good reason to talk with your pediatrician rather than assuming it’s just another cold.

A pediatrician can help determine whether symptoms are caused by allergies, repeated viral infections or something else. “But” says Dr Senders, “Don’t engage in often expensive remediation efforts until you ask your pediatric provider to do a simple blood allergy test.” The cost of the blood test (which is typically covered by most insurances) is minimal compared to the cost of allergy proofing a house.” 

Winter may mean fewer blooming plants outside, but allergy triggers do not disappear when the temperature drops. For some children, they simply move indoors.

Senders Pediatrics is located at 2054 South Green Road in South Euclid. To schedule an appointment, call 216-291-9210 or visit senderspediatrics.com for more information.