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Emergency Department

From Fall Leaves to Winter Heat Managing Indoor Allergies Year-Round

As the leaves fall and the cold weather sets in, many people breathe a sigh of relief thinking allergy season is finally over. No more pollen in the air, right? Unfortunately, for many Canadians, fall and winter can actually make indoor allergies worse. Once the windows are closed and the furnace is on, dust, pet dander, mould, and even leftover pollen get trapped inside. Dry indoor air and less ventilation can irritate sensitive lungs, leaving some people coughing, sneezing, and feeling congested well into the colder months.

If you have asthma, COPD, or other lung conditions, these triggers can make breathing harder. Even if you don’t, indoor allergies can leave you feeling tired, stuffed up, and uncomfortable.

Person sitting on couch, blowing their nose.

Common Indoor Triggers

According to the Manitoba Lung Association, perennial (year-round) allergies like dust mites and animal dander are common culprits. Dust mites thrive in bedding, carpets, and furniture, while pet fur and dander become airborne and easily inhaled. Mould spores and lingering pollen can also contribute. Symptoms may include:

  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • Sneezing and itchy eyes
  • Post-nasal drip or sore throat
  • Persistent cough
  • Fatigue

These might feel like a lingering cold, but allergies don’t disappear after a week or two.

Tips for Reducing Indoor Allergens

The Manitoba Lung Association suggests a few simple steps to make your home easier to breathe in:

  • Wash bedding regularly in hot water to kill dust mites (weekly)
  • Vacuum often with a HEPA filter vacuum.
  • Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity around 35–50% (dust mites and mould love damp air).
  • Seal up your home – close doors, windows, and fix gaps where allergens sneak in.
  • Clean or replace furnace filters on schedule (every 1-2 months or as needed, especially if there are pets, allergy sufferers, or smoke exposure in the home)

DIY Affordable Air Filter

If buying an expensive air purifier isn’t in the budget, you can build your own using a box fan and a furnace filter. The BC Centre for Disease Control has shared a simple design that’s both effective and affordable:

  1. Buy a newer box fan (2012 or later) with a safety fuse.
  2. Get a good quality furnace filter (MERV-13 or higher).
  3. Attach the filter to the back of the fan with tape or bungee cords, making sure air is pulled through the filter.
  4. Run the fan on low or medium for steady air cleaning.
  5. Replace the filter as it gets dirty, especially during high-allergen months (minimum every 6 months)

This homemade cleaner helps remove dust, dander, mould spores, and fine particles, improving indoor air without breaking the bank. For more detailed instructions, visit: BCCDC_WildFire_FactSheet_BoxFanAirFilters.pdf

Allergies don’t take a holiday when the weather gets cold; they just move indoors. By keeping your space clean, managing humidity, and trying affordable tools like a DIY air filter, you can reduce triggers and protect your lungs. Small changes can make a big difference in helping you breathe easier all fall and winter long. To learn more about keeping your lungs healthy, visit the Manitoba Lung Association Manitoba Lung Association