Avoiding Environmental and Household Allergens
Avoiding Environmental and Household Allergens
Environmental allergens are among the most difficult to avoid. These include pollens and pollutants, which are carried in the air. We all have to go outdoors from time to time, and we all breathe, so these allergens frequently cause problems.
Household allergens can also be troublesome. One of the most common of these is dust mites. They are found in every home to some extent. Mold may also be found in some homes, and can cause allergy symptoms in some people.
Still, there are some things we can do to reduce our exposure to these allergens. These include:
* Stay indoors as much as possible on days when pollen and pollutants are high. Keep the windows and doors closed.
* If it is hot out, run the air conditioner. It will help filter out these allergens.
* When driving, keep the car windows up.
* If you must go outdoors for any length of time, wear a face mask. If you’re mowing or doing something else that could result in exposure of the skin to allergens, wear long pants and any other protective clothing that is necessary.
* Do not dry dust your furniture. Use furniture polish and a rag instead. This will capture the dust instead of allowing it to fly into the air.
* Invest in a good vacuum cleaner. One with a HEPA filter can prevent dust and other allergens that are found on the floor from ending up in the air.
* Remove carpeting if possible. Carpet is a magnet for dust mites and pet dander, and it can also harbor mold. It is very difficult to keep these allergens out of carpet, no matter how often you clean it.
* Vacuum upholstered furniture and wash drapes regularly. Better yet, replace them with leather or wood furniture and blinds that will not hold onto dust.
* Run an air filter, especially in the bedroom and any other room where you spend a lot of time.
While you can’t eliminate environmental and household allergens, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure to them. This will reduce your need for allergy treatment.
