Local

Mild winter could mean exacerbated allergy symptoms for Central Florida residents

With a warm winter and dry weather expected through the beginning of 2018, experts warn that allergies could become a real problem for some Central Florida residents.
Serious allergy attacks can cause conditions like sinus infections, which can lead to larger problems, allergy nurse Lisa Ault said.
“Major sinus infections – we have people that come in and say they suffer from six to 12 sinus infections in a year,” Ault said. “Ragweed is involved with cow’s milk, banana melons and lettuce. That’s not spinach and kale, just lettuce.
“And you tend to crave what you are allergic to.”
A person’s diet can have serious ramifications for their reaction to allergens, Ault said.
“Most people don’t want to believe how much food plays a role in their health, but it is tremendous,” she said.
Ault suggested anyone dealing with allergies during the dry, winter months get a skin or scratch test to help narrow down what is setting off the reaction.