Is it Spring Allergies or Spring Cleaning

You might notice you're sneezing or coughing a little more than usual around this time of year.

Most people associate these symptoms with spring allergies, which Christelle Miot, MD, allergist and immunologist at Loma Linda University Health and assistant professor of medicine, allergy and immunology at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, explains are usually triggered by increased pollen levels in the air during the spring season.

But what if spring allergies aren't to blame for your sniffling and itchy throat? What if something else spring-related is triggering your symptoms - spring cleaning?

How spring cleaning can irritate your respiratory system

According to Ryan Sinclair, PhD, MPH, professor of Environmental Microbiology at Loma Linda University, cleaning without proper precautions can release significant amounts of airborne irritants that can negatively affect respiratory health.

Spring cleaning often involves dusting shelves, windowsills, ceiling fans, and other hidden areas. Sinclair explains that this dust is released into the air and can remain suspended for hours, worsening indoor air quality.

"Dust is a primary reservoir for mold spores, and when a lot of dust is released into the air, it can really irritate the lungs," Sinclair says.

Vacuuming can also release dust and other fine particulates into the air, Sinclair says. Low-cost vacuums without a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter can leak air and re-release the dust you've just vacuumed back into the environment.

Dust isn't the only thing that can irritate your airways during cleaning. Bleach and other household cleaners are strong oxidizers and can release airborne substances that irritate the respiratory system.

"Bleach is a very harsh disinfectant, so you have to be cautious when using it," Sinclair says. "Never mix bleach with other products-like ammonia or acids-as this can create toxic, life-threatening fumes." When using bleach, be sure to use it sparingly, as milder cleaners are usually sufficient.

Preventing lung irritation

The good news is that there are steps you can take to minimize the impact spring cleaning has on your respiratory system. Sinclair says proper ventilation is key to reducing respiratory risk.

This includes:

• Opening windows

• Turning on ceiling fans to help move air out of the room

• Using kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans

If your airways still feel irritated even with proper ventilation, consider wearing a mask - or leaving your home for a couple of hours after you're done cleaning.

"Airborne fumes from household cleaners and dusting can remain even after cleaning, so staying in the space increases respiratory exposure and the risk of airway irritation," Sinclair says.

Spring cleaning can also affect more than just the person doing the cleaning. Children, in particular, have more sensitive airways, and household cleaners - especially floor cleaners - may put them at higher risk for respiratory irritation since they breathe closer to the floor.

Allergens vs. irritants

If you've taken these precautions and your symptoms still haven't subsided, it may be a sign of allergies rather than irritation.

If your symptoms only occur in the spring, they're less likely to be caused by spring-cleaning habits - assuming you clean year-round - Miot explains.

Common symptoms of spring allergies include:

• Sneezing

• Coughing

• Itchy throat or eyes

• Runny nose

According to Miot, seasonal allergies at this time of year are most often triggered by tree pollen, which can travel several miles through the air. In the Inland Empire, common culprits include:

• Mulberry trees

• Live oak trees

• Olive trees

• Maple trees

• Juniper trees

If symptoms begin interfering with daily activities, over-the-counter medications are a good place to start.

"Second-generation antihistamines and nasal sprays can be very helpful," Miot says.

If these treatments don't help and symptoms persist year-round, talk with your primary care provider, as this may be a sign of another condition.

Worried about symptoms you or a loved one may be experiencing? Visit our Allergy and Immunology website for more information.