What is pollinating in January? Winter allergens in Szczecin

January is associated with a break from allergies, but for many people the symptoms do not go away at all. In winter, household allergens come to the fore, and in mild, snowless winters the first tree pollen can already appear over Szczecin.

In brief

• Main allergens in January: house dust mites, indoor moulds, animal hair and dander.
• In mild winters: the first hazel and alder pollen may appear as early as the end of January.
• Typical symptoms: blocked nose, runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes — often present around the clock, worse in the morning.
• What helps: air your home, control humidity, wash bedding at a high temperature, and take tests if symptoms keep coming back.

What triggers allergies in January

House dust mites

This is the most common winter allergen. Dust mites live in bedding, mattresses, carpets and upholstery, and the heating season and dry air help their allergens spread. The symptoms — blocked nose, runny nose, sneezing — occur all year round, but in winter, when we spend more time at home, they can be more noticeable, especially in the morning.

Household moulds

Moulds develop in cool, damp rooms (bathrooms, kitchens, poorly ventilated rooms). Their spores cause symptoms similar to pollen allergy, often persistent and accompanied by a feeling of tiredness.

Animal hair and dander

In winter, pets spend more time indoors, and so do we. Allergens from cats, dogs or rodents can worsen symptoms in sensitised people.

Hazel and alder — in mild winters

Szczecin's maritime climate can be mild. In warm, snowless winters, hazel and alder can start pollinating as early as the end of January — the first sign that the tree season is approaching.

How to ease symptoms in winter

• Air your home briefly but regularly; keep the humidity within reasonable limits.
• Wash bedding at 60°C and vacuum regularly (preferably with a HEPA-filter vacuum cleaner).
• Limit "dust collectors" in the bedroom — carpets, soft toys, heavy curtains.
• Control moisture in the bathroom and kitchen to limit moulds.

If your symptoms persist all year round, it is worth finding out exactly what you are allergic to. At the AGAMED clinic in Szczecin we carry out allergy tests that also cover dust mites, moulds and animal allergens — painless, with the result right away. Every body reacts differently, so if your symptoms are severe it is also worth consulting an allergist.

Frequently asked questions

Can you have a pollen allergy in winter?

Yes. In mild winters hazel and alder start pollinating as early as January or February, especially in warmer coastal regions such as Szczecin.

Why do symptoms get worse in the morning?

Because we have the most contact with dust mites in bed. Allergens accumulate in bedding and the mattress, hence the morning sneezing and blocked nose.

When should I have allergy tests?

Winter is a good time — you are outside the peak pollen season, and the result can help you prepare for spring. We carry out tests at AGAMED all year round. Book a visit: 519 055 858.