As the weather begins to cool and we start spending more time indoors during the autumn months, many people experience a flare-up of allergic conditions. While springtime allergies are typically triggered by pollen, autumn brings back a new set of allergens — primarily mold spores, dust mites, and damp indoor environments.

Although often overlooked, fall allergies can significantly affect daily life. Noting that allergies may sometimes persist throughout the entire year, Dr. Mustafa Faysal Baysal, Pulmonology Specialist at Medline Adana Hospital, emphasizes that this condition can be kept under control with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Mold Spores and Dust Mites Trigger Allergies

With the arrival of autumn, falling temperatures and increased rainfall raise humidity levels indoors. This creates an ideal environment for mold growth and the proliferation of dust mites. Mold spores often thrive in damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, and can grow unnoticed behind walls or furniture. In individuals exposed to these airborne spores, symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, postnasal itching, watery eyes, and coughing may develop.

Dust mites, on the other hand, commonly live in wool carpets, plush toys, and inside mattresses and pillows. These microscopic organisms accumulate especially in poorly ventilated rooms and can trigger allergic reactions when inhaled. To minimize this problem, homes should be ventilated frequently, carpets should be vacuumed regularly, and bedding should be washed at high temperatures.

Indoor Environments Increase Allergy Risk

Spending more time indoors as the weather gets colder increases the risk for individuals with allergies. The start of the school year, long hours spent in workplaces, and the increased time spent at home all extend exposure to indoor allergens. This can lead to more frequent symptoms such as nasal congestion, persistent sneezing, throat irritation, and coughing.

Dikkat!

It is possible to prevent or alleviate fall allergies by taking a few simple but effective precautions:

• Keep indoor humidity between 40–50%; use a dehumidifier if necessary.
• Wash bedding, pillows, and duvets once a week at 60°C.
• Reduce carpets, curtains, and plush toys as much as possible.
• Ventilate your home briefly in the early morning or late at night by opening the windows.
• Clean areas with mold using vinegar or specialized cleaning products.
• Use allergy medications or nasal sprays if recommended by your doctor.
• Since pet dander can trigger allergies, avoid sleeping in the same room as your pet.

Pay Attention to Heating Systems!

Heating systems used at home can dry out the indoor air, reducing the protective function of the nasal and throat mucosa. This not only increases susceptibility to allergic reactions but also creates a favorable environment for upper respiratory tract infections. For this reason, regularly ventilating living spaces, cleaning filters, and maintaining proper humidity levels are essential.

Don’t Underestimate Nasal Congestion

Persistent nasal congestion, postnasal drip, or a cough that doesn’t improve should not be dismissed as a simple cold. When these symptoms become chronic, they may develop into conditions such as allergic rhinitis or sinusitis. In such cases, consulting a pulmonologist or an allergy specialist before the symptoms begin to affect overall quality of life is crucial.