12/26/2025
Allergies and Winter
If your child has asthma or allergies, winter can be the perfect storm—here are the five things parents should check now before January hits.”
Hi everyone! As we head into the coldest part of the year, I want to share a quick winter asthma and allergy check-in. These simple steps can help your child breathe easier and avoid those stressful, mid-winter flare-ups.
First, review all medications. Make sure daily controllers, rescue inhalers, and allergy meds aren’t expired and that you actually have enough on hand. Check spacers and nebulizer masks too—kids outgrow them faster than we realize.
Second, update your asthma action plan. If your child has been coughing at night, needing their inhaler more often, or having trouble keeping up during exercise, those are signs the plan may need tweaking. A quick check-in with your pediatrician can help get things back on track.
Third, remember that indoor allergens spike in winter. With windows closed and heaters running, dust mites and pet dander can flare symptoms. Washing bedding weekly, vacuuming with a HEPA filter, and using air purifiers in bedrooms can make a noticeable difference.
Fourth, humidification matters. Cold air is dry air, and dry air makes airways cranky. Keeping indoor humidity between 30–50% helps reduce coughing, wheezing, and throat irritation. Too much humidity, though, can worsen dust mites—so that middle range is the sweet spot.
Fifth, have a sick-day plan. Viral season is in full swing, and colds are one of the biggest triggers for asthma exacerbations. Know what medications to start at the first sign of illness and when to escalate care.
And finally, listen to your child. If they’re breathing faster, using extra muscles to breathe, or just seem “off,” it’s always better to check in early.
A little preparation now can make the rest of winter much smoother for kids with asthma or allergies. Stay warm, stay healthy, and take care!