If you have an allergy you probably dread the idea of going outdoors in most seasons. Even drinking cold water or having a cone of ice cream is something you can only do at the expense of a week of sneezing, cold and cough.

But what if I told you some of the biggest villains in the allergy chapter of your life are hiding indoors?

1. DUST MITES

They are tiny microscopic organisms that live by hundreds to millions in our old mattresses, pillows, old books, clothes, unwashed curtains, carpets, and plush toys. When you have dust allergy, it is not just the inorganic dust that is causing your symptoms; these critters along with their excreta and dead organic material are a major factor. They usually cause symptoms that are perennial (throughout the year) as against seasonal allergies caused by pollen.

Solution: Minimalism; if you absolutely need voluminous curtains and carpets vacuum them weekly and wash them every 3 months. Change bed sheets frequently, air mattresses and pillows weekly. Discard old pillows, change mattresses if they feel old and stuffy. Do not hoard plush toys,  keep the bedroom free of old books, clothes, etc.

2. HIDDEN FOOD ALLERGENS

Junk food and Baked goodies may be bad for you in more ways than one. Apart from the obvious problems created by excessive sugar, salt, and fat; some of the more exotic ingredients used in them may cause allergies. Nut flours such as Almond flour, cashew flour (commonly found in keto-friendly baking), yeast, MSG (Ajinomoto ), food coloring and artificial flavoring are all possible allergens. 

Solution: If you've had severe allergic reactions in the past, make a habit of reading labels thoroughly and sticking to familiar brands and products.

3. MOLD

With the Lockdown in progress, most homes are in deep cleaning mode. This could expose you to mold, usually found in areas of high humidity such as around water pipes and under washbasins and in bathroom cupboards.

Solution: Wear masks and gloves while cleaning to protect you from dust and molds.

4.  COCKROACHES and MOSQUITOES

Apart from being a nuisance, these pests can also cause allergic reactions, more so if you try to kill them.  These bugs alive as well as dead, their body parts, excreta can trigger allergies.

Solution: Regular pest control and be careful not to come into contact with their remains without protection

5. HOUSE PLANTS

Although house plants per se may not be a problem, since most of them are non-flowering and don't release pollen, overwatering, especially in pots without draining holes can cause mold growth on the potting soil surface. Terrariums, due to their high humidity are also a mold magnet. Pots kept in areas with low light are especially prone to mold growth.

Solution: Water appropriately, allow the surface to dry before watering again. Don't handle soil, re-pot or trim without mask or gloves. Cycle location of pots so that they're kept in well-lit areas one or two days a week.

Being mindful of your environment, whether indoor or outdoor can help keep allergies at bay. This is important especially in the current scenario where you do not want to be near a hospital unless absolutely essential.

Managing Seasonal Allergies During COVID-19 Outbreak

With the overlap of seasonal allergies and the spread of COVID-19, it may be difficult to determine what your symptoms are pointing out. Remember, if you have a sore throat along with a fever and upper respiratory problem, it could be a COVID-19 infection. If you experience any symptoms, either of a seasonal allergy or you think it might the Novel Coronavirus infection, consult a doctor immediately.