Seasonal and indoor allergens are no joke. They can cause a wide array of unpleasant symptoms ranging from coughing and watery eyes to post-nasal drip and allergic conjunctivitis. Collectively, these symptoms are known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis. Read on to find out about eight common indoor allergens that are found in most modern homes and what to do about them.
1. Pollen
Pollen is the best-known airborne allergen. In the early spring, the air is heavily saturated with pollen, which comes from trees, weeds, and other plants and can easily sneak into homes on even the lightest breezes. While there’s little to be done about pollen levels outdoors, allergy sufferers deserve to find respite in the comfort of their own homes. Try installing specialized screens that protect against airborne irritants on doors and windows to prevent pollen infiltration. They’re available at allergyguard.com.
2. Pet Dander
Allergy sufferers may love animals, but they don’t usually enjoy the runny noses, sneezing, and hoarseness that comes along with spending time with them in indoor environments. Many consumers believe that they are allergic to their pets’ fur, but that’s a slight misconception. People with pet allergies are actually allergic to the proteins found in the animal’s skin cells, saliva, or urine. The best way to deal with pet allergies is to keep pets out of the home or use products like indoor air purifiers to keep the dander from spreading.
3. Dust Mites
Dust mites are found in most modern houses, typically in the bedroom. Symptoms of dust mite allergies include runny noses, post-nasal drip, and sneezing. Alleviate the problem by installing air purifiers in the bedroom and using specialized allergy bedding.
4. Smoke
Smoke exposure can cause irritation to any consumer. Those who are allergic to it just have stronger reactions, including coughing, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, and burning, watery eyes. Ask residents and guests to avoid smoking in the home or install a specialized smoke air purifier.
5. Mold
Mold thrives in dark, moist places like basements and bathrooms. It spreads by spores, though, so it can easily travel throughout the home to cause chronic and sometimes severe reactions. The best way to deal with mold allergies is to get rid of the fungus entirely by eliminating sources of water and installing dehumidifiers.
6. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are emitted from many common items found in modern homes, including not just household products like liquid cleaners, paint, and adhesives, but also some building products. Allergy sufferers can react to even minute amounts of VOCs. They can use specialty odor and chemical air purifiers to remove them from the home.
7. Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a specific type of VOC that is especially common in building products. Exposure to high levels of this dangerous substance will cause a physical reaction in anyone. Common symptoms include rashes, chest tightness, fatigue, and headaches. Try to remove products that contain formaldehyde from the home and install a chemical air purifier.
8. Houseplants
Consumers can develop allergies to any plants, including house plants. The easiest way to deal with a house plant allergy is to get rid of the plant that is causing it.
The Bottom Line
Those suffering from allergies deserve to find relief in their own homes. It takes some work to eliminate common airborne allergies, but it’s worth the effort.