Simple ways to combat
the most common indoor allergy triggers
If symptoms of itchy watery eyes, itchy nose, nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath last longer than 10 days or two weeks, you may have entered the wonderful world of indoor allergies.
The most common indoor allergens in
hot and humid parts of the country are house dust mites. Dust mites are
microscopic insects that eat the layer of skin, called keratin, that we flake
off naturally. “Their waste droppings dry up and form an easily airborne powder
that contains a protein many people are allergic to,” explains Juan C.
Guarderas, M.D., Assistant Professor of Medicine,
“Dust mites tend to accumulate in wall-to-wall carpets and the foam underneath the carpet, and a high concentration are found in pillows and mattresses,” Dr. Guarderas explains. Pillows and comforters made of down tend to be the worst since down also contains keratin.
To counteract the dust mite problem, Dr. Guarderas suggests casing mattresses and pillows in plastic, zippered casings. “Look online for allergy control products,” he suggests.
Animal dander is another major cause of indoor allergies. “The allergen is in their coats, saliva and their dander,” explains Dr. Guarderas. “When it dries it becomes airborne and it is hard to control.” And for some reason cat dander seems to be more potent than dog dander. “There is also a variation between breeds and you can try to choose a pet based on its allergenic degree,” he adds.
One way to handle pet allergies is to not have animals or to keep them outdoors. “At the very least don’t let them in your bedrooms,” says Dr. Guarderas, “and frequent bathing of your pet also helps get rid of the dander and saliva.”
House molds also spawn allergies. “House mold is common where there are basements and also where there is a lot of humidity,” says Dr. Guarderas. “Mold allergens can be a lot of trouble, but using common sense helps.” He suggests treating a mold or mildewed area with vinegar and water, or chlorine and water. Special air conditioning filters may also help as well as changing filters more often.
Inner cities often have indoor
allergens from cockroach scales. “This is more common in big cities, especially
An allergic response might actually come in two phases. “Symptoms of watery eyes, runny nose and wheezing can occur soon after being exposed,” explains Dr. Guarderas. But the immune system can also have a delay phase response. So while the immediate exposure might have bothered a bit, 10 to 12 hours later the symptoms become very troublesome.
If you think that you might have indoor allergies, Dr. Guarderas suggests seeing an allergist sooner rather than later. “An allergist can help the patient by testing to find the exact allergy cause and then find measures that will help,” says Dr. Guarderas. “So get the test, know what you are allergic to, and find what is effective in controlling the symptoms.”