Dust Mites and Common Allergy Culprits

Why do we wheeze and sneeze? Allergy and asthma triggers are very often proteins found in substances called allergens. These allergens are commonly known as animal dander, dust mites, and cockroach droppings. These proteins can cause allergic reactions in people who have an antibody called Immunoglobulin E, or IgE. IgE and allergens combine to cause a reaction in the body that results in symptoms like sneezing, itchy nose, eyes and ears. Very rarely they can cause a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis.

Allergy and asthma triggers and associated levels of sensitivity vary from person to person. There are however certain allergies that effect many people. An allergist/immunologist can perform a simple skin test to determine the allergens that effect you directly. They can also help you to develop a plan to avoid the allergens that affect you and prescribe medications to alleviate your symptoms.

Here are some of the common culprits that can cause you to have allergic reactions right in your home:

• Dust Mites

Dust Mites leave droppings that are the most common trigger of allergy and asthma symptoms. These little creatures are 1/100 of an inch in size. This is smaller than the size of the period at the end of this sentence. They thrive in high humidity and in areas where human dander is found. These areas are most commonly mattresses, bed covers, upholstered furniture, pillows, and carpeting. Dust Mite Control - Neutralize Allergens Caused by These Pests

1. Use zippered plastic wrapped, allergen-proof covers on, mattresses, pillows and box springs.

2. Wash bedding once per week in 130° Fahrenheit of water.

3. Use hypoallergenic bedding and pillows that contain man-made material like Dacron or Orlon instead of natural substances like goose down feathers. Replace hypoallergenic pillows every 1 to 2 years.

4. Eliminate wall-to-wall carpeting.

5. Place stuffed animals in plastic bags and put them in the freezer for at least 6 hours once a week.

6. Clean upholstered furniture and carpeting with specially designed dust mite killing cleansers.

7. Vacuum environs frequently with a high-efficiency particulate air, or HEPA, filtered vacuum cleaner.

8. Filter household air daily with a high quality Air Purifier System to remove airborne droppings. More...

• Pet Dander

It (Cat or Dog Dander) is usually dander (dead skin flakes) from furry animals that causes an allergic reaction. But pet saliva and urine can also be potential allergens and can trigger an allergic reaction.

1. Keep pets out of the bedroom.

2. Limit the amount of time pets are allowed in rooms where allergy sufferers primarily reside.

3. Bath your pet weekly to reduce the amount of dander the animal sheds off into the environment.

4. Filter household air daily with a high quality air purification system to remove airborne dander.

5. Have non-allergic family members brush your pet outside and clean or replace the animals bedding and change litter boxes frequently.

6. Replace carpeting contaminated with animal dander since allergens can remain in affected fabric for a long time. More...

• Cockroach Droppings

Having roaches in the home is bad enough, but there is more to this infestation problem than meets the eye. Proteins found in cockroach droppings is a major trigger of asthma symptoms, especially for children living in densely populated urban areas and neighborhoods.

1. Fix and seal leaky faucets and pipes.

2. Block all crevices, cracks and possible points of entry like window sills, cellar doors and drain outlets.

3. Remove your pet's food and water after they have finished eating.

4. Take garbage and recyclables out frequently and keep containers sealed at all times.

5. Vacuum or sweep the floor after finishing all meals and keep left-over food in tightly closed containers in the refrigerator.

6. Wash dishes immediately after use in hot soapy water.

7. Clean kitchen cabinets and surfaces regularly. Clean behind and under kitchen appliances like stoves, refrigerators, and toasters. More.

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