7 Tips for Allergy-free Winter by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI):1. Reduce humidity (moisture) in your home to keep dust mites in check. Maintain humidity below 50-55%. Don’t use a humidifier or a vaporizer.
2. Filter out dust and other allergens by installing a high efficiency furnace filter with a MERV rating of 11 or 12. Change it every 3 months.
3. Banish allergens from the bedroom (where you spend a third of your life). Keep pets and their dander out, and encase mattresses and pillows with dust-mite proof covers. Limit curtains – use blinds that can be washed instead.
Tips for Indoor Allergy-free Winter - National Jewish video:
4. Keep your home clean. Wear a NIOSH-rated N95 mask while dusting. Wash bedding and stuffed animals in hot water every 14 days and use a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
5. Turn on the fan or open the window to reduce mold growth in bathrooms (while bathing) and kitchens (while cooking). Wear latex-free gloves and clean visible mold with a 5% beach solution and detergent.
6. Don’t overlook the garage if it’s attached to the house - noxious odors or fumes can trigger asthma. Move insecticides, stored gasoline and other irritants to a shed. Don’t start the car and let it run in the garage.
7. Box up books and knick-knacks and limit the number of indoor plants. When you are buying new furniture, like chairs or sofas, opt for leather or other nonporous surfaces to make cleaning easier.
Winter skin care for eczema (atopic dermatitis) (video)
The falling temperatures of winter can be stressful for the largest organ of our body - our skin. Mayo Clinic experts offer some timely reminders for staying comfortable and healthy:
I recommend the following approach to the treatment of atopic dermatitis:
Atopic Dermatitis Treatment - Illustrated (click to enlarge the image).
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