Monsoon season got you sneezing? You’re not alone. High humidity and stagnant water create a perfect storm for allergens, making allergy symptoms worse.
Dr. Neeraj Gupta, a Senior Consultant in Pediatrics at Sir Gangaram Hospital, Delhi, explains why monsoon allergies flare up and offers natural ways to manage them.
Why Allergies Worsen During Monsoon
The monsoon brings increased humidity, stagnant water, and poor indoor ventilation. These conditions are ideal for mold, dust mites, and fungi to thrive, all common allergy triggers. According to Dr. Gupta, damp environments and more airborne allergens can worsen conditions like allergic rhinitis, asthma, and skin rashes.
A 2013 study published in the Osong Public Health and Research Perspective found that heavy rainfall and typhoons led to more clinic visits for allergic rhinitis and skin allergies like atopic dermatitis. This was attributed to higher levels of mold, pollen, and other allergens in the air following storms.
Common Triggers of Monsoon Allergies
Key allergens that emerge or intensify during the monsoon season include:
- Mould spores, often found on damp walls, carpets, and bathrooms.
- Dust mites, which flourish in humid bedding and upholstery.
- Pollen released by vegetation after rain.
- Cockroach allergens and pet dander in homes with poor ventilation.
- Insect bites, which can cause skin allergies or urticaria.
Managing Monsoon Allergies Naturally
Dr. Gupta suggests several effective strategies to manage monsoon allergies without medication:
- Maintain indoor humidity below 50%, possibly with a dehumidifier.
- Sun-dry bedding and clothes to eliminate dust mites.
- Wear a mask when cleaning, sweeping, or gardening to avoid inhaling allergens.
- Regularly clean damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
- Use saline nasal rinses to clear allergens from nasal passages.
Reducing Dependence on Antihistamines
To lessen your reliance on antihistamines, focus on boosting your immune system and maintaining a clean environment. Consider these steps:
- Work with an allergy specialist to identify and avoid your specific triggers.
- Use allergen-proof covers for pillows and mattresses.
- Explore immunotherapy, such as allergy shots or tablets, for long-term relief.
- Try steam inhalation or use air purifiers to reduce the allergen load in your home.
- Prioritize preventative measures over relying solely on medication.
Your diet also plays a significant role. Dr. Gupta recommends:
- Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, ginger, and garlic.
- Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseeds, walnuts, and fish, to support immune balance.
- Adding local, unprocessed honey to food and drinks, which some believe can help build tolerance to local pollen, though scientific evidence is limited.
- Staying hydrated and eating fruits high in Vitamin C to support respiratory health.
Remember, these are supportive measures and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
In Summary
Managing monsoon allergies doesn’t have to mean a constant supply of medication. Simple lifestyle changes, diligent hygiene, and immune-supporting foods can make a real difference. While antihistamines might still be needed occasionally, leaning into natural, preventative strategies can reduce their use and offer more lasting relief throughout the rainy season.
