Informative Essay On Indoor Allergies

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Indoor allergens Overview: You come home after a day away, step into the house, and the symptoms hit: Watery eyes, scratchy throat, congestion. Could it be indoor allergies? Allergies are very common. An estimated 50 million Americans are allergic to everything from dust and dander, to mold and mites. Causes: Half the battle of treating indoor allergies is recognizing you have them, says allergist Asriani Chiu, MD, associate professor of pediatrics and medicine (allergy/immunology), in Wisconsin. Allergy symptoms can be hard to pinpoint because they often mimic cold symptoms. Symptoms: Typical indoor allergy symptoms include: A drippy nose with watery, clear secretions Itchy eyes Symptoms that linger for weeks Cold symptoms differ …show more content…

Sources of mold in the home can include damp basements, closets, bathrooms, houseplant soil, humidifiers and air conditioners, garbage pails, mattresses, upholstered furniture, and old pillows. To help reduce exposure to mold: Use a dehumidifier in damp areas (follow the manufacturer's instructions for recommended cleaning). Use air-conditioning during seasons of high humidity (central air conditioning with a high quality filter can help keep indoor air cleaner). Change filters of home heating and cooling systems regularly (consult the manufacturer's instructions). Use ventilation fans in bathrooms during and after showers. Check basements for areas of seepage or leaks and have them repaired. Remove fallen leaves from around the home and clean out rain gutters regularly. Cockroaches live near food and moisture, usually in kitchens and bathrooms. The most important step in reducing cockroach allergens is to completely exterminate the living population of cockroaches in the home. Because cockroaches are very hardy insects, it is most effective to use professional exterminators. After the home has been treated, use traps such as poison bate or boric acid traps. Avoid chemical sprays as they can further irritate people with allergic

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