ALLERGY INFORMATION
Sponsored by the AllergyStore.Net
According to the Institute of Medicine of the National Institute of Health, indoor allergens are
responsible for a significant share of the allergy related illnesses suffered by 20 percent of all
North Americans. The triggers for these allergies include pollen, mold spores, animal dander,
household dust and the house dust mite. Dust mites thrive in conditions of low light and high
humidity. Pillows, duvets, mattresses and box springs provide them the perfect habitat. If you are
allergic to house dust mites, you may experience sneezing, a runny or itchy nose, itchy eyes, a
nighttime cough and/or wheezing. Up to 30 percent of all people have allergic symptoms, with the
majority being triggered by the house dust mite. According to research, asthmatics are most at risk
with up to 80 percent reacting to the house dust mite allergen.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
There are several other things you can also do to limit your exposure. Decrease the build-up of
dust and mold; leave doors open between rooms to maximize airflow. Change or clean cooling and
heating system air filters at least once a month. Use a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air)
filter with your heating and air conditioning units. Vacuum and dust your home and office
frequently. Use a vacuum that features a HEPA type filtration system - or one with HEPA vacuum
bags. This can reduce the allergens released by a regular type vacuum cleaner by more than 90
percent. Also, use specially designed dust cloths that feature a magnetic charge that picks up dust
particles. Typical dust cloths toss dust particles into the air, causing increased allergic
reaction in allergy sensitive people.
MAINTENANCE AND HOUSEWORK
Keep bathroom and kitchen surfaces clean and dry to avoid mold build-up, and be sure to fix leaky
plumbing and seal cracks where water can seep in. Throw out old basement stored furniture. That old
over-stuffed armchair can be a breeding ground for dust mites. Reduce humidity in damp areas by
using a de-humidifier that is set between 25 and 50 percent. This will help eliminate dust mites,
which cannot live at low humidity levels. But remember to clean the de-humidifier at least once a
week. In addition, wash blankets and bedspreads once a month and sheets and pillowcases weekly, if
possible. Wash them all in water warmer than 130 degrees F, since dust mites cannot live above these
temperatures. Dry items in a dryer, since pollen clings to fabric that is dried outdoors.
DECOR
Avoid dust-catching heavy draperies or blinds. Instead, hang washable curtains or shades. Leave
floors bare or use washable rugs in place of carpets, which are breeding grounds for dust mites and
mold. Decorate sparsely, being sure to avoid upholstered furniture wherever possible, especially in
the bedroom. Replace upholstered furniture with wood or leather pieces.
PETS
It is believed that dogs or cats with short hair are less likely to cause allergic reaction, due to
much lower levels of dander, however, if you are sensitive, you may well have an allergic reaction
regardless of the length of hair on the animal. Fish make good pets for people with allergies, as
long as the tank is kept clean and mold-free.
To your good health, Phillip Brown, CEO The Allergy Stores allergystore.netallergystore.netOpen ↗
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