How to cope with winter allergies

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - If you've been feeling a bit sick, it might not be a winter cold, but allergies that you're dealing with.

Last years lack of snow and warmer weather made for a very difficult allergy season.

This year, snow on the ground has cut down on mold spores outside, but that may not stop you from getting allergies.

Problems inside your home could be making your allergies a particular nuisance right now.

Inside your home you may be dealing with dust, animal dander and mold on top of dry air, which could cause you to have a stuffy nose and dry throat.

Viruses and allergies, while different, can still make you vulnerable to sickness.

Dr. John O’Neill of Holyoke Medical Center explained to 22News, "Maybe they didn't get the full blown viral illness, but they got enough irritation from it that their allergies which hadn't been bothering them are more of a problem."

Sometimes a reaction to allergies could make you more vulnerable to illness.

To help ease the dryness in your home which could be aggravating your allergies, getting a dehumidifier could help.

Dr. O'Neill recommends over the counter allergy medication, but if your allergies persist then seeking medical attention might be wise.