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Tips for the Home
 If you are prone too suffering from allergies, it
makes a lot of sense to create one allergen free room in your home. This
room should be set up comfortably because it is where you will spend most of
your time. Use an appropriately sized air purification system, eliminate
carpets, heavy draperies, fabric furniture, and use hypo-allergenic covers
for all pillows and mattresses. If you have pets with feathers, fur, or hair this room
should be made off limits to them. Avoid feather and wool bedding, which attracts
dust mites.
Hypo-allergenic covers for pillows and
mattresses are very effective in minimizing dust mite exposure. Use
polyester-filled pillows, and replace them with new ones annually. By
washing blankets, quilts, and comforters in hot water weekly, you will kill
dust mites and prevent infestation.
You should avoid knickknacks, books, toys.
Objects that cause undue
clutter collect a lot of dust and can be difficult to clean. Keep floors bare or use washable throw rugs
instead of area rugs and carpets.
Use an air purification system. There
are many different types of air purification systems to choose from. When
considering which type is best for you, find out as much as possible about
the type of air filtration systems they use. Some utilize expensive high efficiency
particulate arresting filters (HEPA). Other types of systems use a less expensive but
efficient ionization collection system. The
Ionic Breeze Air Purification
System uses the latter system, and can be operated very inexpensively after
initial cost of about $300 dollars. They can be very effective at removing allergens as
well as chemical pollutants from indoor air. And they can save you hundreds of
dollars per year and thousands more over the life time of the unit because
they don't require expensive replacement high efficiency particulate
arresting filters. It's best to use a single unit for a particular room;
concentrate on the bedroom. To find out more about the Ionic Breeze Quadra
Air Purification System click here.
Keep indoor humidity between 48 and
50 percent. Consider purchasing a hygrometer to measure humidity and a
dehumidifier to monitor and maintain your indoor humidity. In some cases you
may need to install a humidifier if indoor air becomes too dry. Dry indoor
air is usually a problem in the winter time or in regions where desert climates
prevail. Put filters over air
conditioning and heating ducts and vents and change the filters regularly.
Rain gutters and drainage areas around the house should be keep clear of
leaves and debris because they can become ideal areas for
mold and mildew
growth. Clean up water spills and keep faucets in proper working order.
Keep your refrigerator, cabinets, and cupboards free of foods that begin to
show signs of spoilage because they could contain mold.
In The Garden
Yard work should not be done during
early morning hours because pollen counts are higher during this time of the
day. If you must do gardening work wear pollen filtering gloves and masks.
Change your clothes and shower immediately upon coming into the house after
you finish your yard work.
How to Handle Your Pets If
you are allergic to animals it's best not to own them at all. If you do own
animals, keep them outside. If you allow your pets indoors restrict them to
areas of your house other than your bedroom. At best while indoors, keep
your pet confined to one room in the house. Bathe your pet regularly and
wear a mask when you do. Bathe after playing with your pet and don't rub
your eyes or nose until you have at least cleaned your hands.
In the Car
Use your automobiles air conditioning
system during pollen season instead of riding with your windows open. Keep
your car clean by vacuuming and shampooing the seats and carpets regularly.
On The Job
It's best to keep your work space
uncluttered and dust free. The paperless office may be ideal in theory, but
until it becomes a total reality it's best to keep paper build up to a
minimum. Piles of paper in the office collect dust and mold. Don't decorate
your office or work space with dried plants or dried flowers. Use an air
purification system to keep the air in your office work space clean.
More...
Using these methods can significantly reduce
your allergen exposure. For more information, visit the American Academy of
Otolaryngic Allergy web site at
www.entallergy.org.
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