Midwest Allergy & Asthma is proud to announce that Dr. Cherie Y. Zachary was selected by the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) to share education about ‘Handling Allergies during the Holidays’. Dr. Zachary was featured on the radio during the ACAAI meeting and is also the expert highlighted on local radio stations to increase awareness and, hopefully, relief to listeners. During the interview, Dr. Zachary addresses allergens such as dust mites, mold & animals, and includes helpful hints for listeners to minimize their symptoms. Below are a few of the helpful hints to help you get through the holiday season with allergies! Listen here for the full interview from our Allergy & Asthma Specialist, Dr. Zachary.
Minimize Your Winter Allergies
- Throw out shower curtains, wallpaper, or carpeting that have mold. Wash showers and sinks with a solution containing 5% bleach and a little detergent.
- To help control dust mites and mold, use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity in your home below 50%.
- Use vaccume with a HEPA filter as dust mites are stirred up when you vaccume. .
- Wash bedding in hot water (130 F) each week to reduce dust mites.
- If someone in your household is allergic to pet dander, consider getting a non-furry pet, such as fish or a lizard. If you already have a cat or dog, don’t let the pet sleep in your bedroom, and give it a bath at least once a week.
Tips to Make the Holiday Season Easier with Allergies
- Consider buying an artificial tree. Live trees can harbor chemicals and mold, which can trigger allergic reactions.
- Wash or dust off of ornaments before hanging them on the tree. Buy glass or plastic ornaments rather than fabric, which can collect more dust.
- If you have a pet allergy and your relatives have cats or dogs, make sure to take your allergy medication with you and get your allergy shots beforehand.
- Bring your own pillow when traveling.