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Limit Allergens, Dust Mites and Mold in the Home Reduce Allergy Symptoms
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Author: Administrator Account
Added: 03/13/2005
Type: Summary
Viewed: 494 time(s)
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 Limit Allergens, Dust Mites and Mold in the Home Reduce Allergy Symptoms
Home Precautions Can Limit Allergy Symptoms
Many people suffer from allergies to dust mites and molds,
some without even realizing it, experiencing respiratory
ailments like hay fever. High exposure to these allergens
can lead to asthma. There are several ways that you can
make your home environment as allergen-free as possible to
limit health problems.
Reducing and limiting the amount of dust that accumulates
in your home is critical. Dust mites flourish in a home
with furniture that is upholstered or has carpeting.
Eliminating carpeting from your home would significantly
reduce dust mites. Hanging your clothes up in a closest
that has closeable doors also helps, along with protective
covers for items that are used infrequently.
Fabrics are great places for dust mites to hide. Replace
drapes with blinds where possible, and be sure that your
mattress. box springs and pillows are tightly enclosed in a
covering that resists mites. Bedding and throw rugs should
be laundered weeky in hot water. Clean furniture, walls and
floors with a damp cloth. A vacuum with HEPA filter is the
most effective in dealing with mites. HEPA room purifiers
can also be effective in removing allergens.
The bedroom, your retreat for rest, is where you should
work the hardest to control dust mites. Besides taking the
precautions mentioned above, it~s best to eliminate any
surfaces where mites can exist. That means taking
absolutely everything out that is not necessary. The decor
will be minimalist, but you will be healthier. Once you
have reduced the contents of the bedroom, clean everything
thoroughly.
A pet in the house, especially a cat, can contribute to the
dust problem. And many people who have mite allergens also
react to pets. If you~ve decided you can~t give up the pet,
at least do not allow it into the bedroom.
Dust and high humidity are ideal conditions for both mites
and mold. Keep your home both clean and dry so they don~t
have a chance to thrive. For moisture control, start with
the basics. Be sure your home~s outer barrier is properly
functioning to avoid leaks in the basement, windows or
roof. Inspect all areas at least semi-annually for any
signs of deterioration or water intrusion. Keep gutters
free of debris that might send water into the building
envelope. All water coming off the building should drain
away from it without experiencing obstructions.
Ventilation of any crawl space and the living areas is
vital. Ensure that clothes dryers and other
moisture-producing appliances are properly vented.
Bathrooms should have a ventilation fan, and if excess
moisture still persists also use the window for venting.
The kitchen range hood fan should be strong enough to
exhaust cooking moisture, but not so powerful that it pulls
air from other areas of the building.
If necessary, incorporate dehumidfiers in problem areas.
Also watch for any signs of plumbing leaks, such as sounds
of constantly running water or unusual moisture conditions.
Clean all sink areas, showers and tubs often, because mold
can thrive in soap scum. At any sign of mold, act
immediately. If mold spores show up on the shower curtain,
replace it. Use soap and disinfectant to remove black mold
around windows.
Allergy symptoms can be reduced by being proactive. Extra
effort and sacrifice in decor options are required, but the
tradeoff is better home sanctuary and improved health.
Author Candace Liznick writes for the
<a href="http://allergyalley.com">allergy</a>
resource, Allergy Alley. Register for the free Allergy
newsletter at http://www.allergyalley.com. |
Article Pages: 1
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