Sunday, February 3, 2013

Allergies and Indoor Allergens

Allergies and Indoor Allergens

Allergy is one of the most common problems that people all over the world suffer from. Allergy is caused by allergens that cause an allergic response in people suffering from different types of allergies. Just the pollution in the outdoor environment is not only that triggers various allergies but also many indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, cockroach droppings, and molds are some of the indoor allergens. These cause allergic symptoms like runny nose, irritated throat, breathing difficulty, itching and burning of eyes, or itchy skin, and if ingested even cause stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and even more severe reactions that need emergency medical attention.

To protect yourself from these allergy-causing allergens you need to take appropriate actions to control the growth of them.

One of the commonest indoor allergen is dust mites triggering allergy and asthma. Dust mites flourish in home furnishings. You should enclose mattresses, cushions, and sofa seats in special allergen-proof fabric. Washing your bedcovers and bed sheets at least once a week in hot water and dried well. You should maintain the humidity of your house low by either using a dehumidifier or an air conditioner. Use lightweight throw rugs so that they can be regularly washed.

Dander and urine of your furred animal can cause allergy so make sure about your allergies before opting to buy a pet. Even if you have a pet see to it that, he/she is not allowed inside the bedroom

Another most common allergen found in the house is cockroach droppings triggering asthma symptoms, especially in children. Seal all crevices, wall cracks, leaky faucets, and pipes in the house. Keep food properly covered and dispose any leftover food in well-covered dustbin. Your kitchen should always be kept clean and dry.

Molds and mildew need humid and wet environment to thrive. Therefore, you should keep your basements and crawl spaces dry and clean. It is better to dispose moldy items. Regularly maintain your roof and basements and check for any leaks. You can also use dehumidifiers to keep the humidity levels in these places very low.

You should use vacuum cleaners to clean the house at least one every week and wear a mask while doing the cleaning job. Even your carpets need to be vacuumed properly.

It is advisable to keep your home allergen free you should - your home should be kept clean and dry, allergens generally build up in beddings, carpets and upholstered furniture vacuum them weekly with a HEPA filter or double bags, maintain low humidity by means of air conditioner or dehumidifier, immediately get all your leaky areas repaired to prevent mold growth, avoid infestation by storing food in sealed containers, and use garbage with proper lids.

If in spite of all measures you suffer from allergies get in touch with your allergist to get tested for what type of allergens cause allergic symptoms in you or a family member. Proper care, precautions, and consult with your allergist can make your allergic symptoms much less and you can enjoy your life in a better and healthy way.

About Texas Allergy Center & Dr. Raja

Dr. Raja is an allergist Austin, Texas providing residents with solutions to allergies, asthma as well as skin care. Our staff will provide you with a comprehensive plan to treat your allergies and asthma.

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